GUEST POST: Jamie Curry
It feels like just yesterday when I saw that positive pregnancy test. Although excited, I worried about how to work and provide for this little life in my womb. It’s no secret that many women understand this concern.
Will they become stay-at-home moms or “working” moms? Will some work part-time or on the weekends?
For me, I knew I would have to go back to work after I gave birth. Still, I felt unsure of what it would look like.
Those worries have since subsided. I’m five months post-partum and a proud working mom. Truthfully, I experienced great difficulty at first. Thinking about someone else caring for my son during the day caused panic. Taking breaks to pump or feed my baby during the workday caused stress. With time, the routine improved, I learned to trust our son’s nanny, and I felt fulfilled in my work and role as a mother. Going through this life change put into perspective how amazing women truly are. We are strong, resilient, and inspiring. My work now has so much more meaning because it provides my son with food, housing, and safety. I am so grateful to provide for my baby!
So, if you’re in the same boat and wondering what your life will look like as a working mom, you must recognize that motherhood is your number one priority. Your career and hobbies take second place. However, motherhood doesn’t have to be the only thing you accomplish. Many people say that you either MUST be a stay-at-home mom or work. Shut out all the noise and focus on what is best for you and your growing family.
Additionally, create healthy boundaries. Don’t overwork and prioritize time from your family! When you get home or log off the computer, leave the “work at work.” Your time off should be spent cuddling your little one and being present. If you feel overworked, bring it to your manager or Human Resources (HR). They may help limit your hours or create a work environment more accommodating to your family life.
Last of all, give yourself grace and set realistic expectations. This lesson challenged me the most, learning I can pause work at 5 p.m. and care for my little boy. When I returned to work, I stressed about not performing adequately. I took breaks to feed my baby and time off to get him to his doctor’s appointment. I quickly realized I couldn’t continue work if I didn’t relinquish the stress. Immediately, I noticed I was happier, my work improved, and I spent more quality time with my son.
Be kind to yourself, mama. This is the biggest life change you will ever experience, but you are totally going to crush it!
As always, Standing With You is here to support you! If you are a post-partum mom and need support, visit the Standing With You directory to find resources near you. You are not alone!