Should I feel guilty? Really enjoying being a "Working Mum"!

[pinky27]

Hiya, I went back to work 2 weeks ago and instead of finding it challenging I have really enjoyed being back and being "my old self" again. Obviously I have missed my daughter lots and love coming home to her smile but I now feel guilty that I am enjoying being back. Did anyone else feel like this? Heard on the news the other day that working mums do NOT effect there child's emotional and social development so was very pleased about that! Thanks. :)

I've just finished my first week back at work (part time, ds 12 months). I have really enjoyed re-engaging my brain, and have enjoyed my time with DS so much more now that it's not all day every day. The money will be fab too! DS LOVES nursery and bounces with excitement when we get there. So far it's all good!

I hated maternity leave too. I love being back at work. I'm now part time again, which will hopefully give a better balance.

Last week was first week back for me, full time. Before i went back i felt guilty. I don't feel guilty (much!) any more and was reminded how much i love work and having some independence, not having to rely on DH to provide everything. But i do miss my DS terribly and hope it will get easier from that perspective. I've found it hard that he's so tired in the evenings and so i only see him for an hour or so before he goes into meltdown and has to go to bed.

Of course not. Guilt is seen as the default position because most people do feel guilty at some point. I don't feel guilty for working, but if I miss an event or concert etc, then it creeps in. If you are fortunate enough not to feel guilty, I really wouldn't waste time worrying about it. very few people find the right balance for them, so if you have managed to, just enjoy it!

I love working full time. Have 2 DDs aged 11 and 4. Have great partner who does 50/50 chore wise, oh and have a cleaner (who also does ironing) which is a great help. Means we can spend the weekend with DDs and not have to worry too much about house et. It can be a bit stressful at times trying to fit everything in but I was far more stressed when I was a SAHM.

I also think having a flexible employer helps. I'm never made to feel bad about taking time off when kids are sick or when I have to leave early etc

But I do usually work doubly hard so that I don't let guilt creep in when I do have to have time off/leave early!