Changing to FT from PT

[pitterpatterrain]

I am just returning to work now after DD2 and pondering FT rather than 4 days and then spend more time off in holidays as the eldest is more on school holidays now.

How have others found this change?

I feel like the risk of having to do work on my "off" day is higher this time around and I am side-lined for promotion. Already a couple of senior people have expressed surprise that I am not coming back FT.

I spent four years at home after my youngest two and went back to work FT earlier this year. I asked to do PT but they said no straight away as they require needed someone full-time plus my long gap in employment meant I had loads to learn.

It's been a real emotional rollercoaster. Mornings are really hard. I hate leaving and having the youngest one look sad when I pass him onto the nanny/daddy. Apparently he is completely fine as soon as the door closes though. It's such a hard choice to make isn't it. I know that for my children it would be better to see me more. But then I was getting quite down at home and towards the end didn't really have much enthusiasm to play with them. I totally love my job (I'm a doctor) and so now they get a mum that's happy and more energetic than when I was at home. I work 9-5 so I do see them a little bit in the mornings and evenings but it doesn't feel like very much at times. My kids are with their dad 3 days a week and with a lovely nanny 2 days a week. They say they love having them look after them but I do still feel massively guilty.

I think it boils down to what's best for you and your family. What would make you happiest? How will your well-being affect the children? How long are your days - will they still see you on your working days? Is promotion important to you or can it wait?

I've loved working ft but then I do think my kids are little for such a short time and I'm going back to pt after Christmas. But everyone is different.