I'm returning to full time work on Monday after having a 6 month old baby.
Baby will be looked after by a relative (who lives with us)
I'm so worried about this, that every morning I wake up each morning with my heart pounding on the verge of a panic attack. I'm not breastfeeding anymore, but I feel a pain almost like a letdown sensation at the thought of being serrated from him. I can barely think of anything else.
I've never left him for more than 3 hours.
My work has told me that on my first and second week for two days each week, I will need to work in a different location (only realistic way to get there is public transport one way 1.5 hours). They are in the process of moving most staff to this location, and I had negotiated a flexible arrangement working closer to home. I really want to try to negotiate this with them, but I don't want to push my luck and lose my job because I haven't been agreeable. I don't want them to see me as weak or incapable.
I had convinced myself that I could handle the 8 hours away from my baby because I usually work close to home. If I am away for 8 hours plus another 3 hours in commute I won't even see my baby awake on the days that I am commuting! It's the equivalent of going away for two days straight and not seeing him! I just don't know what to do :-(
Has anyone got any advice?
3 Replies
I have gone back to work very early after each of my children have been born. My youngest I was back at work when he was 6 wks. I didnt get a job in my qualified field as they weren't flexible enough so just got a job in sales for now it's more flexible and accommodating for my family. I feel extremely guilty some days that I have to go to work instead of staying home with my kids but in the other hand working allows me to
Provide for my kids so it's a double edge sword. I find it easier leaving my kids when I know I can trust the person caring for them. I also touch base a few times during the time Iam away to make sure everything is ok.
Can you trust the person you are leaving your baby with? If you have such a strong intuition about leaving your baby don't do it! Something is telling you not to. There will always be jobs however your baby won't be little forever. At least talk to your employer about your working arrangements if that is going to help, baby comes first not work. I understand some people need to go back to work for financial reasons however if they aren't willing to accomodate your needs I would be looking for another job.
I am also a working mumma. At first it was hard but it will be the best thing for you and your child, plus gives a chance for your baby to recongnise your relative more and get use to not being with you 24/7. I think we need more working mummy's!! Go u. Good luck x