Mam guilt

[Livdex]

I don’t know where to start. I just need some advice. I’ve just got a new job as a post person. It’s a very active job, working 5 days a week. Not long days. Usually 8:30-15:00. I’ve not worked this many days a week since before I had my kids. 14 year old boy and 20 year only girl at uni. The problem is, I feel guilty for being out of the house so much. The guilt is mainly towards my son. I work the odd weekend now. But he’s getting older and he’s out more with friends but I can’t shake this guilt that I feel. That I’m not home more and doing the things I used to do like housework and having tea ready for him when he gets home. My son has never said anything about me being at work more so why do I feel like this? I like the job, I’m more active and have lost weight…. But still down on myself. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

It's difficult to know what to advise as clearly you have nothing to be guilty about.

14 and 20 year olds should be doing their bit in the home anyway, but (as you say) you are hardly working excessive hours. You are there when he gets up / goes out to school. You are there when he returns. You are all able to eat together each evening. I doubt if he even notices the difference - except that your family finances are now much healthier.

Thank you! Your reply will make a huge impact on my confidence going forward.. appreciate your words so much.

You are being a brilliant role model for your kids. You are taking care of them. Don't even begin to feel guilty about that

Its always good to be busy living your own life as children grow older. They like that as it means they are freer to begin to stretch out and live their own lives. You have already put a massive amount into these kids since birth and now is a different phase. And an early finish. Nothing to feel guilty about here!