After dedicating five years to staying home with my children, I felt an urge to re-enter the workforce, despite the complexities it would introduce into our family life. The initial weeks—perhaps even months—were marked by significant stress, largely stemming from organizational issues. Here are eight common mistakes I made during my transition back to work.
- I Overlooked the Babysitter’s Independence. In my eagerness to ensure everything was perfect, I bombarded the babysitter with constant texts about activities for my children. I managed playdates and felt compelled to relay every detail, from lunch options to reminders about cutting grapes for the toddler. Eventually, I realized that giving the babysitter access to essential contacts and a petty cash drawer for groceries led to a much more harmonious environment.
- I Micromanaged My Husband. With my husband responsible for the kids during the mornings, I struggled to let go of my previous routine. I found myself correcting his choices, whether it was the breakfast he served or the clothing he picked for the kids. However, after a few late mornings, I learned to trust his decisions and simply stepped out the door, regardless of whether the toddler was dressed appropriately.
- I Settled for Mediocre Lunches. I quickly discovered that lunch should be a moment of enjoyment in a busy workday. Initially, I either packed uninspired meals or splurged on overpriced sandwiches that didn’t satisfy. Now, I take time to prepare lunches I genuinely enjoy, making it a highlight of my day.
- I Didn’t Inquire About Flexibility at Work. When starting my first job back, I neglected to ask about flexible hours or the possibility of working from home. I tried to fit my family life into a rigid 9–5 schedule. Now, I always check if my supervisor is open to adjusted hours or remote work, and more often than not, they are accommodating.
- I Neglected Self-Care. As someone who values exercise for both solitude and mood enhancement, I found that my workout routine was the first thing to go during hectic family times. However, I’ve learned that prioritizing my well-being is critical for maintaining household harmony; neglecting self-care only leads to feeling overwhelmed.
- I Insisted on Cooking Every Night. The myth of twenty-minute meals was a source of frustration for me. It took far longer to prepare dinner than I anticipated, often resulting in hungry children. Now, I cook in bulk on weekends, allowing for convenient meals during the week, and I’m not opposed to using takeout when necessary. Sometimes, a simple can of lentil soup and toast will suffice.
- I Failed to Organize My Bag Each Night. Despite having learned this lesson long ago, I often found myself scrambling in the morning for essential items. By preparing everything the night before—including my outfit and accessories—I significantly reduce morning chaos.
- I Ignored the Importance of Comfortable Footwear. I made the mistake of selecting stylish but uncomfortable shoes for a client meeting, forgetting how painful they could be after long hours. The comfort of your shoes should be a top priority, not just for working mothers but for any parent juggling responsibilities.
While I may not have perfected organization, I’ve certainly grown from these experiences. Each day still feels like a race, but I’ve transitioned from a novice to someone who can navigate the demands of work and parenting more adeptly. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to plan tomorrow’s lunch.
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Summary
Transitioning back to work after a long break can be challenging for parents. By learning from common mistakes—such as not allowing autonomy in caregiving, neglecting lunch satisfaction, and failing to prioritize self-care—individuals can navigate this transition more smoothly. Preparation and flexibility are key to balancing work and family life.