Ronnica

Mom to Arianna & Aaron

Quality Assurance Analyst, Nationwide

Length of maternity leave: 3 months

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

To be completely honest, my first day back to work seemed heart wrenching. Some may say that’s a bit “dramatic” but it’s the truest way that I could describe my feelings. I was given the opportunity to work from home with a present nanny as I transitioned back into work, but it didn’t take away the sadness that I experienced. I was welcomed back by my colleagues which helped a great deal. There was something still missing. Oh yes, my sweet twins in my arms.

What do you find difficult about being a working parent?

I think the greatest challenge about being a working parent is that sometimes you don’t have the luxury to choose not to be. I know for me, my family isn’t in a position where I could make the choice to stay at home with my precious babies. Although, I know that a stay at home is also a job in itself. But a job far beyond worth it.

What do you enjoy about being a working parent?

I must say that I enjoy the opportunity to take a break and be present with others working towards a common business goal. I love the moments where I get to spend time with my sweet twins after a long day of work. It’s the most rewarding feeling.

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

Since being back at work, I definitely have a new perspective on my career and family. I recently heard a mom say on the Motherly podcast that if your going to be a mom away from your children, it must be worth it. I couldn’t agree more. To me, work definitely has to be worth the hours away from my sweet children. On the other hand, it also motivates me to meet my productivity goals. Simply because it’s not just about me but also about my family that I provide for.

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?

Thankfully, I had a lot of wisdom shared with me prior to returning back to work. One piece of advice that really stuck with me was that: “You’ll never be ready to return back to work.” This is the truth! I would also remind myself that the hardest part of pushing out two babies is over. Now it’s time to get back to what you already know how to do!

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

In Home Nanny

The pros of my childcare situation is that the nanny is in the comfort of our home. The cons is that when if I am working from home, I’d much rather be spending time with my babies.

Anything else you want to share?

All in all, this new journey of motherhood has taught me that I am capable of so much more than what I’ve allowed myself to believe. I’ve learned how to overcome the hardest feelings of doubt by speaking positive affirmations over myself. I would also share that every mother is different. Which means that every journey and history is different. But what remains the same is the community of motherhood that we all share.