- Arrive at the office a bit behind schedule, thanks to the morning hustle of getting the little one ready.
- Make my presence felt at work – “I’m here, I’m dedicated, and I’m trying my best…”
- Sneak away to the restroom to fix the mascara that has smudged from my emotional drive to work.
- Place a call to see how my baby is doing.
- Glance at the clock; it’s already time to pump.
- Tackle a questionable amount of tasks.
- Start yearning for the warmth of my baby’s smile.
- Hold back tears.
- Time to pump again…
- Lunchtime! (Debate the idea of escaping and not returning…)
- Attempt to focus on work, but instead make a quick call to check on my little one.
- Breathe into a paper bag (baby could be heard crying in the background during the call).
- Oh no, “let down” – it’s time to pump once more.
- Struggle to stay alert while completing tasks.
- Begin to fret about job security.
- Try to concentrate.
- Try to concentrate.
- Wonder if the baby has calmed down. Better to call and find out…
- Consider financial options for staying home with my little one.
- Feel a wave of sadness when no clear solutions arise.
- Head home.
- Repeat.
- Repeat.
- Repeat.
- Repeat.
- Repeat.
This article was originally published on January 15, 2008. For more insights on family life and parenting, check out our post on the at-home insemination kit. For thoughtful gifts for new parents, visit this authority on the topic. Also, explore this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination advice.
In summary, the experience of a new working mom involves a daily balancing act between professional duties and the emotional pull of motherhood, filled with moments of stress and longing.