Editor’s Note: This article was written by a contributor and not by Maman Caféine.
After several long, blissful months spent with my baby, I returned to my beloved job with a little sigh of relief. I really enjoyed my maternity leave—even though, in my opinion, it shouldn’t be called “leave” since you’re caring full-time for a tiny baby who depends entirely on you—but that’s another topic! Some moments seemed to drag on longer than others, which is why, after almost a year, I’m really happy to be back in my work routine. However, that routine has changed a lot now that my little one has started daycare—and phew! It’s quite the adjustment!
Credit: Gabe Pierce/Unsplash
I know it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed and to lose my bearings. As someone who’s usually very organized, I think “mommy brain” has followed me this far! I’m having a hard time fitting the daycare routine into my own work routine. In fact, I know I’d have to almost completely change my routines so that everything runs more smoothly and I’m not exhausted every time I lie down in bed at night. After all, I can’t expect to go back to my old life and the way things used to be, since now a child is part of my daily life.
Credit: Gabe Pierce/Unsplash
I don’t want to give up my career or my professional goals. I’m a strong-willed woman who loves her job and wants to keep climbing the career ladder… but I’m realizing that the job market and society haven’t yet adapted to parenthood—and especially to motherhood. I know full well that my partner doesn’t face these kinds of challenges. The mental load is very real, and I’m the one bearing the full brunt of it. I’ve already brought this up with my partner, but habits are deeply ingrained and will be hard to change. So what do I need to adjust to try to feel a little less tired? Or rather, what will I have to sacrifice?
I find it disheartening to be in this situation, to be asking myself these kinds of questions… And the worst part of it all is that I try not to complain too much, because at least I have a spot at daycare and I’ve been able to go back to work! I know that’s not the case for many moms…
Maybe if we keep talking about it, things will change. I’m not giving up hope!
Do you find yourself asking similar questions?