To go back to work 6 months early

[Newmum29]

I’m really struggling. I know no one can decide for me but keen to ask advice from those who’ve done it.

First child was born 3 months ago. She’s wonderful. Very wanted and plan was for me to take 9-12 months maternity leave depending on hubby being able to take 12 weeks paid leave at the end. He was made redundant 2 weeks before she was born.

I was unhappy in my job and happy to leave for an extended period. Whilst on maternity I’ve been offered a new better paying job but would need to start when LO is 6 months. No flexibility on the date.

AIBU to consider taking it? Hubby may have a new job or he may be at home with Bub, MIL will also be doing 1 day and I’ll be 4 days a week.

I would take the job. You'll still have 3 days a week with your baby, and they will be with your MIL one day a week and with your husband. The time will go quickly, so I would think about the next few years. I had a couple of years off with my second (not planned, due to redundancy) and it is lovely but can be hard to get back into work (not that you are planning to take a break, just to show you that there are downsides to staying at home too). At the time, an extra few months can seem like a long time, in the future it won't matter to you.

Thanks again everyone. Just to clarify for a few people who’ve asked, I am going to be part time. Pretty sure 4 days is just the same as 5 with a 20% paycut but I’m intending to start as I mean to go on by not answering emails / calls if I can help it on my day off.

We’re formula feeding so no real worries about that and my OH is great with the baby. He does half the feeds now and a little less than half the settling but the majority of cooking and cleaning. I’m the main breadwinner.

Go for the job. I went back after 6 months, but hated being away from her and struggled. TBH, I’d have felt the same at 12 months or more - disliked my job and really wanted to be a SAHM, but couldn’t afford it. Very grateful for my salary now, however, and my DD thrived regardless.