back to work tomorrow

GrantHenson

I am back to work tomorrow.  I am feeling so anxious I feel physically ill.  It took 2.5 hours to sleep last night.  I knew that I was going to have to go back to work when I had her but I had no idea that I would have such a hard time with it.  I went to my work meeting last week hoping that I was going to be excited however they are discussing some changes that would involve bringing a lot of work home.  I have less than 2 hours as it is with my baby and my work is very stressful so did no leave excited.  Let me know any suggestions you ladies have to make this transition easier

Karla CS

ClaryPax said:

If you are pumping, buy lots and lots of extra part and bottles so you don't have to do dishes all the time.  You will forget a part, so keep spares at work.  I've forgotten breast pads, the white things that cause the suction, bottles, and the actual pump over the 6 months I have been pumping at work.  Also put your pump sessions in the calendar with an e-mail reminder.  

Putting pumping on the calendar and sticking to it is crucial. Also, it's embarrassing the amount of times I've forgotten pump parts. Or had a fluke day and pumped WAY more than I had bottles for. I always week extra storage bags with my pump just in case.

Going back was really difficult for me, but I've gotten used to it. While I love working, I don't love my job, but I love picking the baby up every day and the time we get to spend together. 

I really don't think there's a whole lot beyond making sure you have everything ready to prepare. Admit to yourself that it's going to be rough and wear waterproof mascara. You may be late, you may eat fast food for dinner, your outfit might not match. And really, none of these things matter. And french fries are delicious. Good luck!

SebsMum

I agree that the anticipation is worse than the reality.  Prep as much as you can for the first week to make sure you have time for any unforeseen time sucks in the morning.  I found I actually enjoyed going back as the day was getting a bit long with just baby and me at home.  It's nice to have a reason to get dressed nicely and speak to adults (even though I teach young children!) all day.