
Get rid of the guilt…When you’re at one place, don’t feel bad that you’re not at work; when you’re at work, don’t feel bad that you’re not at home.
-Katie Couric
I’ve been in both places, a stay-at-home mom and a working mom. I have to say, the transition from staying home to working was hard, but as a family we had many conversations before, during and after this transition to help with open communication and issues as they came up. What I didn’t anticipate was that this transition might also be hard outside of the family for extended family and to a smaller degree friends as well.
Here’s what I learned from staying home to working again:
- There will be many, many discussions about the new division of labor at home.
- People may feel occasionally neglected as some of your time and attention gets diverted back to the work place.
- Friends and extended family may be surprised that you’re busy with work and unable to see them or have them come visit when it’s most convenient for them. Boundary setting often becomes very important here!
- Your kids may have trouble around you not being able to pick them up and drop them off at a moment’s notice. Planning in advance can be helpful here!
- Your spouse may be surprised that you’re not willing/able to go to all of their upcoming events.
- Even the dog may be upset about the lack of walks during the week (I know mine was and he showed it in his new found grumpiness!).
Transitions can be hard for everyone, but if you know your why and your purpose behind the change, they can also be so very fulfilling!