Did you return to work after maternity?

[user1497020183]

And did you live to regret it? (Or not?) my maternity is up soon and it's basically up to me how much or little I want to go back, if at all. I'm really struggling to decide. I was falling out of love with my job when I left but it wasn't the worst place to work.

I went back part time which to me was the best of both worlds.

I returned both times following maternity leave and on a full time basis too. I didn't regret it however if you have the option to reduce your hours etc. certainly take it. I wish I had done that negotiating before I returned as my flexible working request was rejected after I had already gone back.

Went back part time after my first (three days a week) and am on a career break now as we relocated before second was born. I plan to go back part time again in the next year if I can.

I went back six months after both. Two days a week for a couple of years. I needed the money tbh. But now they're both older I don't regret it at all.

I didn't but couldn't get the flexibility; it was full time or nothing and I hated the job anyway. If you're offered flexibility then I would say grab it as it's very hard to find. I think a bit of balance would have made me saner. I'd ask for one or two days personally.

I went back 3 days a week to a new job - old one wouldn't be flexible. Now my son is settled at nursery (2 days a week) and absolutely loves it. He has made so much progress in his development, socially and in physical skills by being there too. I am now looking for a new role with more hours.

Part time jobs are hard to get

I went back to work full time. I'm lucky to love my job and thoroughly enjoy it. I don't regret it but it's hard work.

No, but I had no flexibility, and a long commute. 13 hour days, and short notice weekend trips. It would never have worked. I have just started again now the DC are all in secondary. No regrets - I've kept very busy with lots of other things.

Went back PT after my first and recently returned but changed to FT after second

I don't regret it, I enjoy my job, and without my wage our life would have to change significantly

I had to, or would have had to put back maternity pay.
Went back part time using annual leave accrued to make it even more part time, used 1-2 days a week for a couple of months.

After the period required I left my job and got another with family friendly hour's. Turned out to be professional suicide. I can never get back to the level I was at, ever.

I was ready to return to work after Mat leave. Did PT until I lost my job end of Jan this year and I really really hate not working (the guilt of that tears me up enough) but I really miss adult company, I was more together as a mum and wife when I had 2/3 days a week of work.

Have had zero luck finding new work and it's been crushing. It is down to the individual though, you may return and hate it but you need to know by jumping in with both feet!

Good luck!!

I didn't go back until my youngest started school. I loved it at the time, but now I'm back at work I realise that I was very very lucky to find a good job after several years as a SAHM. Not sure I'd take the risk if I had my time again!

I went back after nine months both times. The first time I went back three days per week and loved it, the second time I went back full time to accept a promotion. I really enjoy my job and I'm really happy with my choice.