Mom to Sena
Purchasing Assistant Manager
Length of maternity leave: 13-weeks
Childcare: Daycare
What did you struggle with most about returning to work after having your kids?
It’s truly a blessing but I was promoted during my maternity leave from an individual contributor level to a leadership management level. Becoming a new mom as well as becoming a new manager was intimidating, challenging, and has been a tremendous learning experience. The drastic changes both at home and work has lead to several tears, but I feel myself getting stronger every day.
What do you find difficult about being a working parent?
Time. Before I became a mom, dedicating my time to work was easy and simple. Business trips were often, overnight, and at times international. But now, I want to ensure I have time to spend with my daughter every single day to watch her rapidly grow. It’s all about balance. (And working smarter, not harder!)
What do you enjoy about being a working parent?
Partnership with my husband. My husband and I have had a very smooth transition into parenthood. Working together to be present for our daughter, and equally distributing our newly acquired joyous responsibilities has been heartwarming. It’s a fresh dynamic to our relationship that I thoroughly enjoy.
After being back at work for some time, have your views about career and family changed?
Yes and no. I never thought I would be a mother as a personal choice. I thought I would dedicate my life to my accomplishments and success. Having my daughter was a natural love I didn’t realize I had in me. My career is important; I want my daughter to know her mother is a strong, independent woman who is a hard worker and strives for success. But I also want her to know that accomplishments and successes are not the only things that measure a person’s worth.
Knowing what you know now, what’s one thing you wish you could go back in time and tell yourself as you were preparing to return to work or getting ramped up in your role?
To not be hard on myself. Motherhood came naturally but working motherhood has been a continual balancing and rebalancing of choices. It’s okay to make mistakes and mess up and have setbacks. Depend on your support system. Remember to forgive yourself. It will all be okay.
What did you choose for childcare, and how has it been for your family?
Daycare
Pros - Amazing, caring, attentive staff. Socialization. App updates of photos and daycare activities. Fun events and holiday festivities.
Cons - I am not with her on the weekdays!
Overall, I feel like I should have admitted the first time around that I had anxiety about leaving my baby. I should have addressed it with a counselor and possibly gotten help.