#Women in workplace after Maternity leave
When I prepared for my maternity leave, I concentrated on detailed planning and the transition of my job responsibilities. This phase, although challenging, was defined by a clear end goal and an established timeframe. The real challenge, however, occurred when I returned to work. It was like going into a completely different universe, where I had to catch up on all I'd missed, and adapt to the shifting dynamics, all while managing the physical and emotional changes that postpartum brought into my life.
Catching up on work after months away was not only difficult, but I needed to thoughtfully prioritize my tasks and engage in open dialogues with my colleagues, as well as set realistic timetables.
However, the complexity did not end there. Striking a balance between self-care, family responsibilities, and professional obligations proved to be a daunting task. Setting limits became necessary, as did asking assistance from my partner, relatives, I even hired a nany to help ease the load.
I frequently feel guilty about failing to reach my own expectations in many aspects of my life, whether as a parent, partner, or professional. This shame becomes worse by the expectation, whether self-imposed or cultural, that given my experience as a parent, I should do everything correctly.
The realization that I am no longer the parent or professional I once was does not imply that I am less capable; rather, it reflects the changing demands on my time and energy.
Managing a household with my baby, which requiring a distinct degree of attention and care, while also contributing for growth of my workplace, is a massive job.
I sometimes feel guilty for wanting to work a few hours instead of being with my baby around the clock yet, I recognise that having time for professional or personal interests is essential for my well-being and sense of self, which ultimately benefits my family.
In office there are so many people that think I’m better off staying at home with my baby, Instead of being supportive. After doing my research, I had made up my mind that it’s both in mine and in my son’s interest for me to be a working mother. Yes, I miss him terribly when I work but I remind myself why it’s all worth it. But it was (and still is) exhausting to hear people’s judgment and politics in workplace Even if you try not to take it personal.
North West’s Go-to Recruiter in Private Client | Associate Director at Realm | Football Mum of Two ⚽️
5moThe 'nose' is actually my belly button 😂