What is the best thing about going back to work?

dakota3 · November 2009

I head back to work in 3 weeks and I'm dreading it. I am feeling sick about leaving my baby in someone else's care, but I promised my employer I would go back and would leave them in a bind if I didn't (I am a teacher at a small parochial school).

I'm trying to find all the positives about going back to work so I can concentrate on those instead of all the negatives--which seem so many right now. What are some positive things to help get me through this? Also, did it turn out better than you thought it would when you went back? Thanks!

Temp159135562506975 · November 2009

that is a short leave- that sucks. If you do not have to go back - i would take off longer- even if they are in a bind--- as long as your job would be safe... IMO, this time is so precious and you can't ever get it back again- so IF it's possible to take more time off--- your job will deal with it--- there is no position that is THAT important that they'd be in that much of a bind- trust me. (i used to be a teacher myself... they will manage)

that being said- if you'd lose your job if you didn't go back- and have to go back... the positives are many!

You time, getting to use your brain and creativity again... your baby will get to know other people and learn some good skills that way - not being stuck with only mommy all day = not a bad thing for children.

There are some studies out there that say that working moms spend 80% more quality time with their children than SAHM's do (if i'm saying that right)... the time you spend with your LO will be more important to you and you'll probably be a better mom for it -- and the time you are working will be different for you so you'll probably be a better teacher because you are a mom - i know i have felt that way beign back at work.

soccermom-to-be · November 2009

Going back to work is very hard and I will be honest that for me, the first month was awful but, it's been two years since I went back and it's the best thing I ever did. Here are a few reasons why I am so glad to work:

1. I really like my job and feel so inspired by what I do. It stimulates my mind and helps me build a lot of confidence that I can pass on to my mothering side.

2. I love being around other adults who have become very close friends and taking lunches and talking gossip and world politics. With my SAHM friends (whom I adore) all we talk is kids and this is a nice change.

3. The dual incomes afford us anything we want. The best daycare, vacations etc. We never worry about money and my DH and I never argue about expenses.

4. My DD is thriving in school and really loves her friends and teachers. She looks forward to going and when she sees me at the end of the day she runs over and gives me the biggest hug in the world.

It's tough but there are so many benefits to it. Just do the best you can and remember that you're doing what's best for you and your family. Good luck!

AlisaS · November 2009

I like that my boys will grow up with parents who both have jobs/careers they enjoy and contribute equally to the household. I like that my kids will grow up with a mother/woman who has a cool job, like I did. IMO, I can't see any benefits in not working.

I love my kids in daycare - they do amazing things there and I really feel they would be missing out if they stayed at home. They have had the benefit of growing up with their DC friends, their DCPS who I adore and who love my boys.

Economically, I like my income. I like being financially independent. I can't imagine spending my days figuring out to make an extra buck selling crap on Etsy or doing online surveys for $5.

Meg&Jesse · November 2009

Goldie_Locks_5:

There are some studies out there that say that working moms spend 80% more quality time with their children than SAHM's do (if i'm saying that right)... the time you spend with your LO will be more important to you and you'll probably be a better mom for it -- and the time you are working will be different for you so you'll probably be a better teacher because you are a mom - i know i have felt that way beign back at work.

Thanks for this! I would be a horrible SAHM, I enjoy being out of the house and having time with other adults. I worked hard for my education and to get where I am in my career. The time I spend with DS is quality time and we do a lot of fun stuff on the weekends. Having 2 incomes allows us to do more things and also pay for "extras" like music and gym lessons.

2-Step · November 2009

I like that I still have a life outside of the home with friends who don't know me as a mom first. I love being a mom, but sometimes my brain just needs to check out for awhile and focus on something else and work lets me do that. When I come home I am so much more focused, patient and excited to be with DS. I feel like I cherish every second with him now. When I was home I got frustrated and felt isolated a lot. By the end of the day I was ready to hand him off to his dad, now we fight over him at the end of the day.

kate081206 · November 2009

I feel good about what I do for my career, I manage a physicians practice for low income individuals. I feel I am making a contribution to the greater good. I like telling people what I do and I am proud of it. I have worked hard to get where I am.

I miss DS a ton every day. That will never change. But working makes me a more well rounded person.

Also, the anticipation of going back was ten times harder than actually doing it, KWIM?

AutumnBride929 · November 2009

Making money again. Being able to provide a comfortable lifestyle for DS makes me feel better about working (DH also works FT). I just keep thinking about all the fun things we will be able to afford to do together as a family with two incomes.

Also, the adult interaction is nice.

Lastly, I just think about all the good interaction and stimulation DS gets at daycare. Way more than what he would get at home!

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