Seeking Advice: To Return to Work or Stay Home with My Little One
As a first-time mom, my 12-month maternity leave will wrap up later this year, and I’m feeling quite torn about my next steps.
Before my baby arrived, I was passionate about my job and focused on advancing my career. I am fortunate to work for a supportive company with a wonderful manager and great coworkers. I genuinely thought that taking a year off would leave me feeling ready to dive back into work.
However, my perspective has shifted. I truly enjoy being a mother, and my husband and I have decided that we’re willing to forgo some of our financial aspirations to allow me to primarily care for our child. We’re not interested in daycare, so if I do return part-time, we’d need to rely on my in-laws and a close friend for support.
I’m wrestling with whether to take an extended break from my career—potentially stepping away for at least three years (and possibly longer if we have another baby)—or to request a part-time role, ideally two days a week, knowing that I may need to step back again when we’re ready for a second child (which we hope won’t be too far off).
I would really appreciate hearing from other moms about how they navigated similar situations. Should I maintain some level of work during this time as I focus on our baby, to help ease my return to full-time work later on? Or should I fully invest my energy in my child for now? Thank you all for your insights!
It sounds like you’re in a really important and personal decision-making process, and it’s completely normal to feel conflicted about this. Here are a few considerations that might help you navigate your choice:
Reflect on Your Values: Think about what matters most to you right now. Is it truly prioritizing your time with your little one, or do you feel a longing to continue your career? It’s okay to feel excited about both motherhood and work; they can be fulfilling in different ways.
Consider Your Support System: If you’re thinking about returning part-time, having support from your in-laws and a close friend can make a huge difference. It might alleviate some worries about childcare and allow you to balance both your career and time with your baby.
Talk to Your Employer: Since you mentioned you have a supportive company and manager, consider discussing your options with them. Maybe they can provide flexible solutions that work for you, like remote work or adjusting some responsibilities.
Trial Period: If feasible, try to set a trial period for part-time work. This would give you a taste of balancing both sides without fully committing to one path. After a few months, you can reassess if it’s working for you and your family.
Long-Term Career Goals: Think about your career aspirations in the long term. Taking a break has its challenges, but having some work experience during your child-rearing years could also mean you feel more connected to your professional goals when you’re ready to return.
Find Joy and Balance: Ultimately, remember that being a stay-at-home mom doesn’t have to mean completely stepping away from your career, and part-time work doesn’t diminish your role as a mother. Balance looks different for everyone, and it’s about finding what makes you feel fulfilled.
Listen to Your Intuition: Trust your gut feeling about what is best for you and your family. Sometimes, the answer lies within you, and taking some time to reflect can bring clarity.
Every family’s situation is unique, so whatever decision you make, ensure it aligns with your family’s values and the needs of your little one. You’ve got this!