Mom to Max
Sales Rep and Founder of Moore Sleep
Length of maternity leave: 14-weeks
Childcare: Daycare
What did you struggle with most about returning to work after having your kids?
Losing control of what happened with my son's schedule day-to-day. He went to daycare and they were amazing. But two women can only do so much with eight infants. My son did not sleep as well at daycare in the beginning which caused me lots of anxiety. Sleep has been such an important part of my journey as a parent that making sure his sleep needs are met is still my number one priority.
What do you find difficult about being a working parent?
The guilt I feel about not spending "enough" time with my son. There are only so many hours in the day to get everything done with my job, my business and for my family. By the end of the day I feel I often feel like I have given some of the best parts of me away throughout the day. I worry if I have enough love, energy and patience for him.
What do you enjoy about being a working parent?
I have always been a driven person, so working allows me to have an outlet to push myself professionally. It gives me time away to recharge and provide for my family.
After being back at work for some time, have your views about career and family changed?
There are still days that I question if I am doing too much professionally and sacrificing too much. But I want to set an example for my son for what it means to be a hard worker, driven and use the education my parents provided.
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?
There will always be good days and bad days, but you have to look at the averages. I remind myself that work accomplishments are important but my most important role is my son's mother!
What did you choose for childcare, and how has it been for your family?
Daycare
Pros: Playing and learning with other children, exposure to other people watching him, planned activities
Con: Expense, back up child care if he is sick, behavior of other children rubbing off on him
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