What do I mean by that?
Let me explain with a quick story. When my daughter was born, I was sure that staying home with her was the very best option for both of us. I wanted to be available to her 24/7 in order to create the strongest mother/daughter bond the world had ever seen.
Three months later, I was searching for excuses to nap, take a bath, or go on a walk, without a baby. I didn’t want to admit it, but I felt claustrophobic and humourless from being on all day and night with my little one. I had forgotten what it was like to be something (anything!) other than a mom.
The top 3 reasons why going back to work was positive for my baby
Because my baby sees me as a role model:
All my life I’ve wanted to be a mother; I believe in my heart of hearts that it’s the greatest job in the universe. That said, I also believe you can be an awesome mom and at the same time have a stellar career outside of the house.
Now that I’m back at my 9-5 job, my daughter has the chance to see me as more than just a caretaker. To her, I’m a competent, multi-tasker who can juggle a full-time job and the demands of a family. By happily establishing a purpose at home and at work, I’ve set a sterling example of the type of choices women can make in terms of motherhood and careers.
Because my baby knows I’m always there (even when I’m not):
When I’m at home, baby knows she’s my priority because I’m pretty much at her beck and call. But when I’m at the office, she can’t lay eyes on me. Does that mean she forgets who I am? Absolutely not.
I know I’m still on her radar because as soon as I get home and baby hears my voice or gets a glimpse of me, her face breaks into a smile as big as the sun. Her expression speaks volumes! It’s clear that she recognizes me as someone she’s free to love and trust because I always come back.
Because I’m more confident and secure:
I realized early on that being a stay-at-home mom wasn’t a good fit for me. I longed to continue to create and collaborate with other adults in a professional environment (like I did in my pre-baby years). What’s more, I missed the sense of accomplishment that comes with a monthly paycheck (not to mention the extra cushion in the bank).
Don’t get me wrong—being a mother is rewarding in ways too numerous to count. But for me, it’s all the more satisfying because I’m fulfilled outside of my home as well. With my current schedule, I wake up every day ready, eager, and able to wear the many hats that belong to a working mom.
I did it my way
Of course, I’m aware that in some circles, “working mother” is considered a derogatory term. I also know that not everyone is going to want to revisit their job after having a baby. The key is to make an informed decision based on what works best for you, rather than based on what others are suggesting.
At the end of three months, I was depressed at the thought of being a stay-at-home mom. While part of me longed to remain by my child’s side, I knew I was basically useless if I remained exhausted and downcast. So, I took the time to listen to my gut and reevaluate.
Turns out, my distinct path of motherhood led me to my place of employment and, at the end of the day, it will always lead me right back home. And where will your path take you?
Author bio
Samara Kamenecka is a VA specializing in SEO and content creation. She blogs about lucrative side hustles for moms over at www.extradoughpro.com. Catch her writing about everything from VIPKid reviews to teaching English online.