After five wonderful years at home with my children, I felt the pull to dive back into the working world. While it was a sweet period filled with family moments, transitioning back to work added a new layer of complexity to our lives. The initial weeks—maybe even months—were incredibly stressful, primarily due to organizational hurdles. Here are eight rookie mistakes I made during my return to work.
1. I Overmanaged the Babysitter.
For the first month of my new job, I was glued to my phone, constantly responding to messages from the babysitter about activities for my two boys. I was setting up playdates and shuttling information back and forth like a frantic messenger. Finally, I decided enough was enough. I handed over all the necessary phone numbers and left a drawer stocked with petty cash for groceries and outings. Suddenly, my life became much calmer.
2. I Micromanaged My Husband.
Since I start work earlier than my husband, he takes charge of the kids during my morning routine. After years of managing breakfast and dressing them, I found it hard not to interfere. I’d rush in to swap cups or change clothes. But after a few late mornings, I realized it was better to let him handle things his way. Who cares if the toddler is wearing oversized shorts?
3. I Settled for Boring Lunches.
A friend mentioned that lunchtime is often the only peaceful moment in a workday. I found myself alternating between uninspiring packed lunches and overpriced sandwiches that didn’t satisfy. Now, I take the time to think about what I want to eat, and it’s often the highlight of my day.
4. I Didn’t Inquire About Flexible Hours.
Many workplaces have varying “office cultures,” meaning start and end times can differ widely. My first job back didn’t allow for much flexibility, and I tried to squeeze my home life into a rigid 9-to-5 structure. Now, I always ask about options for adjusting my schedule or working from home, and more often than not, supervisors are open to it.
5. I Neglected Self-Care.
I know it’s a bit odd, but I genuinely enjoy exercising. It offers me a rare moment of solitude and boosts my mood. However, when family life gets hectic, my workout time is often the first thing to go. I’ve learned that taking care of myself is crucial; otherwise, I feel like a worn-out pack mule, always trying to catch up.
6. I Tried to Cook Every Night.
The myth of the twenty-minute meal is just that—a myth! I quickly discovered that it takes me a solid hour to prepare dinner. Kids whining for food while I sauté veggies drove me to the brink. Now, I batch-cook on weekends and mix in convenience foods or takeout. I’ve accepted that sometimes dinner is just a can of lentil soup and buttered toast, and that’s perfectly okay.
7. I Forgot to Prepare My Bag the Night Before.
This is a lesson I should have remembered from middle school! In my first few weeks, I’d scramble around looking for my essentials—wallet, keys, laptop—only to realize I was running late. Now, I lay everything out the night before, including my outfit and accessories, making mornings less frantic.
8. I Didn’t Think About My Shoes.
During my early days, I picked out an outfit for a meeting with a potential client and chose a pair of stylish but uncomfortable shoes from my pre-kid wardrobe. By the end of the day, my feet felt like they’d been attacked by a cheese grater! If you’re a working mom, comfort should be your top priority when it comes to footwear. After all, you need to be ready for anything, whether it’s jumping into a sandbox or breaking up a sibling squabble.
I’m still far from perfect, and each morning feels like an obstacle course. But I’m no longer a rookie. Speaking of which, I’ve got to plan tomorrow’s lunch!
For more insights and tips on parenting and transitioning back to work, check out our privacy policy. And if you’re exploring options for home insemination, Make a Mom is a fantastic resource. Additionally, the Women’s Health website offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
Returning to work after years of staying home can be challenging and stressful. From over-managing caregivers to neglecting self-care, there are plenty of rookie mistakes that can add to the chaos. However, learning to delegate, embrace flexibility, and prioritize comfort can make all the difference in navigating this new chapter of life.