How do you manage this?

[Happiestinwellybobs]

I know I'm being completely wet, but am due to go back to work next week, and I am feeling so teary.

I have had a lovely 9 months off with my DD after adopting her last year. We have packed so much in and I feel so sad that we will be missing so many of our little groups and new friends. I am going back part time (and I know how lucky that I am to be able to do this) so it's not like I'm missing everything.

I know she will love nursery - we're doing our first session today, so I'm not too worried about that.

Work seem to want me back, but I'm worried that I will have forgotten everything - and lots has changed. I know that they're expecting me to train up two people as well as do my own job, and that's making me nervous.

Sorry - I know in the grand scheme of things, this is a bit silly, but does anyone have any coping strategies. I don't want to be weeping in the loo at work next week, and I need to hold it together for my DD this week when I take her to nursery, as I want to be so fun and positive. Maybe I just need a kick up the backside :)

Thanks

You're not being silly!

I found the anticipation/dread of returning to work was far, far worse than the reality. Actually going back turned out to be surprisingly ok after all my angst.
I hope it is the same for you!

I felt the same, I went back when DS was 7 months.

The anticipation was horrible, and the first week back was tough. After that it all slotted into place. It's fine, really. There are days/weeks when I'd much rather be at home with him and hanging out with my mummy friends, but other days when job satisfaction and the lure of bring able to go to the loo uninterrupted make me glad for the office!

I went back 3 days a week when my twins were 10 months old
I was dreading it, really tearful, staying awake at night to look at photos of them etc.
It was and is absolutely fine. I threw myself into my work and barely have time to think about my DCs during the day never mind miss them. Sounds harsh but its actually quite nice to put decent clothes on, get the train to work ( reading a paper - bliss) and being able to pop out for lunch. Stressful part is having to constantly rush to get to work in time and to leave on time, and having to still do housework/cooking/laundry in the evenings. But I really look forward to my days off and find my time with them is far higher quality then before.

Take it as slowly as you can and focus on the positives like adult conversation and lunch breaks! Lower your standards for a bit until you are settled. Good luck!