In the previous autumn, I found myself grappling with a disarrayed work-life balance, leading to my decision to resign from my job. Remarkably, just two months later, I found my way back to the same position, but this time on my own terms. While I might feel like an office boomerang, that break was exactly what I needed to pause and reflect on my aspirations for both my family and my career. Here are five crucial lessons I learned during my time away from the office:
1. The Other Side Isn’t Always Better.
Having experienced both working mom and stay-at-home mom roles in such a short period taught me that each has its own challenges. As I commuted to work, I often envied the moms attending exercise classes or leisurely strolling to the park. However, when I transitioned to being at home in my comfy workout gear, I soon craved the busyness of work life. I now appreciate the quiet moments during my morning drive, even if it was disrupted by a minor accident on the interstate.
2. Speak Up for Yourself.
I have a tendency to prioritize others’ needs over my own, often leading to exhaustion. After leaving my job, the magazine hired a new publisher who began implementing positive changes. When he reached out to discuss my return, I found the courage to express my desire for flexibility and the option to work from home. To my surprise, he agreed! This experience taught me that sometimes having nothing to lose provides the strength to advocate for what you truly want.
3. Let Go of Mom Guilt.
During my time away from work, I cherished moments spent with my children, like attending field trips and enjoying afternoons at the playground. I learned from my stay-at-home mom friends that it’s perfectly acceptable to engage in adult conversations while allowing kids some independence. I initially thought that staying home would alleviate my son Anders’s challenges, but I soon realized that he thrived with a routine that involved interactions outside of me. He needed his own space to grow and learn that my needs matter too.
4. It’s Okay to Say No.
This lesson is one of the hardest for me, as I often strive for perfection. Whether it’s a work event or a social gathering, I’ve learned that it’s vital to decline invitations when I’m feeling overwhelmed. Balancing commitments is essential, and sometimes that means prioritizing my well-being over external expectations.
5. Pursue What You Love.
When I returned to work, I had to explain to my sons why I made the decision to come back so quickly. I highlighted that the magazine needed my expertise, was offering better pay, and valued my family commitments. Most importantly, I conveyed that pursuing my passion for writing allows me to be a more engaged and present parent. After fulfilling my professional aspirations, I’m more excited to spend quality time with my family.
In summary, taking a step back from my career allowed me to reassess my priorities and led to significant personal growth. I learned that every role has its unique challenges, the importance of asserting my needs, and the necessity of pursuing my passions.
For more insights on home insemination and parenting, check out our other articles, including how to utilize a home insemination kit effectively. You can also refer to resources like the CDC’s page on infertility for valuable information, or learn more about male reproductive health at the UCSF Center for Reproductive Health.