I am beginning work in a week, and my LO (9 months) will be attending full-time daycare. It has been taking an emotional toll on me - before we had her I loved working, but now I can't help but think about all the time I'll be missing with her. I also worry that she will think I've just "left her" (silly, I know). I try not to think about it while I'm with her and just enjoy every minute, but as soon as I have a moment to think about it, I can't help but get upset. Any advice on how to get through this? I'm also starting a new job, so it's probably adding to my stress. TIA.
Re: About to become a working mom...
I've been there and I cried the first week my child went to daycare. I thought my boss was going to send me home the first day; I could only stop crying for a few minutes at a time. Day 2 was easier (made it out the door and sobbed once I got in the car). It will take a little time for everyone to adjust. By the way, the adjustment was much easier for my child than me.
Good luck!!
You will feel the same with time. Having a new job will also put your mind on that. Good luck!
You will be fine and you LO will thrive at daycare. Mine loves it and is the most social, happy kid in the world. She just knows that she gets to go to school and play with all her friends, learn, read, do art projects, etc. during the day, while mommy and daddy work.
She runs into our arms when we pick her up at the end of the day. I'm a happier person, wife, mom because I work. I couldn't stay at home and feel fulfilled. Just think of all the positives of working. Additional income, retirement and college savings, time with adults, lunches out.
I am lucky in that I have a gym at work and generally get at least an hour work out in most days, so I won't have to do it early in the a.m. I also would recommend a cleaning service if you can swing it. I haven't had to clean in years and it makes a huge difference.
It's so hard at first, but I promise it gets easier with time as you find you're new normal. If you can't stay at home, why waste energy being upset about it?
I know, easier said than done, trust me! I was there. Pre DS1, I was really into my career, then I had him and all I wanted to do was SAH.
Focus on the positives of working- there is a thread below about why we all work. It is definitely a great pick me up!
GL and welcome!
But I loathe being a WM. however it is what I must do! It does get easier but it will take some time. Remember the quality of time you spend with your kids matters more than quantity!
Me 41 DH 46 Not actively ttc, surprise BFP on 1/6/11! 4/1/11 m/c our sunshine at 16wks after complications from CVS test. TTC #2 **5th cycle 12/6/11 BFP! Missed m/c at 9 weeks 1/21/12, trisomy 14. Two Chemical PG 3/12&7/12
** BFP 8/16/12 beta #1 148! beta#2 407 beta #3 4000 u/s 9.10 1 lovely hb 126, Baby Boy is due 04/28/13!!