As a new parent, I was filled with anxiety just a month ago. My little one was so small and delicate, crying uncontrollably, and all I could think about was wanting to excel in this new role. The only experience I had was from working as a server. Was I supposed to suggest a nice bottle of wine to soothe him, or maybe clean up after him during meal times?
However, after four weeks of parenthood, I’ve discovered that the skills I honed in the restaurant world were surprisingly applicable to caring for an infant. At the end of the day, my newborn is just a tiny, demanding human being, much like the customers I used to serve. If you’re a server anticipating your first child, take a breather—these six lessons from waiting tables will help you navigate those crucial early weeks of parenting.
Lesson 1: Stay Calm, No Matter What.
In the restaurant business, you’ve got to keep your cool when the pressure mounts—be it slow service, a malfunctioning POS system, or an unexpected “surprise” in the flan. As a dad, I apply that same calm demeanor. My baby might be wailing, the cat might be misbehaving, and I might have set off the smoke alarm with burnt toast, but panicking won’t help. Instead, I’m just here, typing this out and sipping a little gin to steady my nerves.
Lesson 2: You’ll Master Patience.
Every server has experienced that urgent need to use the restroom but can’t due to being swamped with customers. You learn to hold it. Similarly, as a parent, you quickly grasp the golden rule: never wake a sleeping baby. You may be desperate for a bathroom break, but the peace of a quiet baby outweighs your discomfort—always.
Lesson 3: Meals Become a Sprint.
If you’ve witnessed how restaurant staff devour their meals before a shift, you know it’s akin to a feeding frenzy. Time is limited, and every morsel counts. Feeding yourself while taking care of a baby is no different. You’ll find yourself scarfing down food as if you’re in a competitive eating contest, because you know that little one will be awake and demanding your attention any moment.
Lesson 4: A Little Liquid Courage Goes a Long Way.
Alcohol can be a comforting friend to both restaurant workers and new parents—just remember to enjoy it responsibly. A glass of wine after a long day can work wonders, but do steer clear while breastfeeding.
Lesson 5: Your Social Circle Shrinks.
Working odd hours in a restaurant often means your friends are also in the industry. Now, as a parent, those without children might as well be speaking a different language. When they start discussing current events or pop culture, you can only nod along, lost in a world filled with diapers and baby wipes.
Lesson 6: Both Babies and Customers Have Their Demands.
Serving customers can sometimes feel like an exercise in futility; they often think they’re always right. The same goes for babies. You’ll find yourself catering to their whims, feeding them, and hoping whatever you provide will bring peace—if only temporarily.
Bonus Insight: You’ll Look Back Fondly.
Despite the chaos of waiting tables and the trials of new parenthood, there’s a certain nostalgia that creeps in. You’ll reminisce about those late shifts and the camaraderie you shared with coworkers. Likewise, you might find yourself longing for those fleeting moments with your newborn, as they grow and change so quickly.
So if you’re gearing up for parenthood, take heart. Your time in the restaurant industry isn’t just a job; it’s a training ground for the wild ride that is raising a child. And for more insights on this journey, you can check out this article on our blog. If you’re considering home insemination, Cryobaby offers excellent kits to get you started. And for a comprehensive guide on what to expect during your first IUI, visit this resource.
In summary, the transition into parenthood may feel daunting, but the skills you’ve acquired in other areas of your life can be incredibly useful. Embrace the chaos, and remember that you’re more prepared than you think.
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