To really miss work?

[OrionNebula]

I have a gorgeous 6 month old daughter. I am due back at work at the end of April.

I adore my DD and I am loving spending this time with her and watching her change and grow. I was lucky to be in a financial position to take some extra unpaid leave beyond my 6 months paid.

However I am also really missing work. I have job I love and I have worked extremely hard and spent a lot of money on my education to get where I am. Although part of me hates the thought of leaving DD in Creche another big part of me is really looking forward to going back.

All the other mums I have met through groups with babies of similar age say they are dreading going back... so I feel like there must be something wrong with me that I am actually looking forward to it?

Many years ago now but I dreaded going back mainly because I didn't want to leave DC1 after 9 months together.
But the thought was so much worse that actually doing it. I loved going back to work in the end, and i felt like a got a part of me back.

I could have written this post! I'm back on 2nd march after 11 months and I can't wait!

While obviously I'm anxious about everything will go and I love my DD to pieces, I'm excited to use my brain again and converse with adults and hopefully be as efficient as I was prebaby.

I do find I have to playdown my willingness to get back as could everyone else seems to be distraught about it but I honestly think they just don't like their jobs very much!!

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with you - I felt like this after both my children, ready to get back and carry on investing in myself & my development.

I am happiest having the balance of both work and motherhood in my life: too much of one or the other impacts my mental health after a while.
You will be looking after your self, maintaining your pension and ultimately presenting a positive role model for your daughter. These things are all important.
Don’t doubt yourself, and try to look forward to this next phase!

Good to know it's not just me

@TrixIrl - maybe it does come down to how much you like your job? If I hated mine I can imagine it would make the thought of leaving her so much more difficult.

I was lonely and isolated on maternity leave. I was lucky to have an “easy” baby and had plenty of spare time but everyone I know works.
I found mum& baby groups very dull. I was used to being busy and absorbed in my work. There was only so much gardening I could do.
So I sympathise. You aren’t the only one.