Hey mama,
Hang in there…going back after Mat leave is really tough and it’s one of the most trying times for working mums. Been through that heartache 3 times over - and I can definitely relate and empathise.
For now, it’s gonna just need to bring gentle on yourself. Take it a day at a time and give yourself some space. One thing I allowed myself to do was to take leave if I couldn’t bear it. So, at the start, I maxed out my leave pretty quickly. Then I put up lots of pics of my babies at my workstation and had a mantra pasted at my desk -
One said - I get stronger with every day that passes, for myself and for my family
The other just said - I choose to work to give my family a better life
As the days went on and I pumped at work I realised, that I needed to give myself more credit than I did. I also buried myself in the work I did. And I told myself I will work hard so that when I get home, I will not do any more work and all of my time will be spent with my baby and my husband.
I hope my sharing helps mama. But if there’s one thing I know will help, it’s support. Talk to your husband regularly about how you feel, talk to people who will encourage you and give you that affirmation. Always rely on your village coz sometimes it can and will get lonely and dark - I will admit to that.
Also, try to find something to distract you too- reading, games, drama series whatever. Just find something that keeps your mind occupied for when you need it.
Anonymous