Ashley

Mom to Jordan

Occupation: Demand Manager

Length of Mat Leave: 14 weeks

Childcare: Spouse, Grandma and Daycare

What did you struggle with most about returning to work after having your kids?

I’m not going to lie- it was tough at first. Trying to balance work time, home time and any self-care time was an adjustment. I had a lot of mom guilt and spent many car rides to work crying. Over time though it definitely got easier- the pit in my stomach never went away, it just got smaller.

What do you find difficult about being a working parent?

Worrying that I’m going to miss a major milestone when I’m at work not with her. The other challenging thing is being focused on home at home and work at work and not letting things occupy my mind when I’m in the opposite place.

What do you enjoy about being a working parent?

I enjoy knowing that some day, Jordan will be able to be proud of her Mom for providing for her family and that I’ll be setting an example that she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to.

After being back at work for some time, have your views about career and family changed?

Definitely- I’ve realized not to sweat the small stuff at work, to not let things stress me out. I’m also much better at compartmentalizing things and turning it off when I leave work (not great but better).

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?

I would tell myself to enjoy every single snuggle, playtime, minute together and never to wish the time away.

What did you choose for childcare, and how has it been for your family?

Split daycare and family/husband.

Daycare has been great for her to develop social skills and to be comfortable around new people. When she’s with her grandma or dad, she’s getting the one-on-one attention she may not get at daycare so it’s a good balance. We’ve been very fortunate.

Anything else to share?

I’m proud to be a working mom, to have exclusively nursed Jordan since birth (pumping at work sucks!), and to allowing myself to excel as a mom and in my career.