Contrary to the views held by fellow star moms, Emma Thompson adheres to a lighter opinion

Emma Thompson does not think working constantly is the secret to successful motherhood. She believes in taking a break from juggling too many balls at once.

The Saving Mr Banks star told a British daily that she recently took a year off from work because she wanted to spend more time with her family - not because she has to but because she wants to.

"A year off was my birthday present to myself. I didn't act or write. I was just a mum," she said. "I taught drama at my daughter's school, cooked meals and had fun. I highly recommend others to do the same if they can afford it."

Emma is mother to a 26-year-old son, Tindyebwa, and a 14-year-old daughter, Gaia.

Thompson's comments come on the heels of another notable star's take on motherhood: Angelina Jolie. During an interview about women juggling their professional and personal lives, the mother of six said that privileged moms should not complain about struggling.

However, the 55-year-old actress has her own take on the subject. "You don't need it all at once, it's not good for you. Motherhood is a full-time job.

The only way I could have continued working would have been by delegating the running of the home to other people. I never wanted to do this as I find motherhood profoundly enjoyable."