First of all, I’d like to tip my hat to all stay-at-home moms. You’re clearly saints. You manage to do something that I struggled like crazy to do for a few months! I know just how much work it is. As for me, this calling isn’t for me.
I’m part of that small percentage of women: I hadn’t even given birth yet, but I was already so eager to get back to work. No, we’re not monsters. Yes, we love our children. I’m one of those people who needs mental stimulation. My job requires me to juggle a million things at once, and it’s so rewarding at the end of the day! I love that “job well done” feeling when 5 p.m. rolls around!
It’s not that I can’t get that feeling with my kids, but let’s be honest. For me, having resolved thirty-five production or delivery issues in a single day is more stimulating than when I’ve FINALLY managed to fold my fourth load of laundry of the day, in between two feedings for my little one who’s going through a growth spurt. Both offer their own degree of satisfaction, but one is “boring” to do compared to the other.
I need time when I can challenge myself mentally in order to truly appreciate the time I spend with my kids. I love being with them and savoring every moment with them. That’s why I’m one of those moms who went back to work when my baby was about 6 months old. To be perfectly honest, that maternity leave felt like it dragged on… a little less so with my first baby since it was summer, vacation time… But I still counted down the weeks until I could make a strong comeback in my role as Superwoman at work.
No, I’m not a monster.
No, I’m not selfish.
No, I don’t regret a thing.
My kids need a mom who feels good both physically and mentally.
What if that’s the perfect recipe for me? I truly believe that’s the case.
So, please reassure me—I’m not the only one who feels this way, am I?