Lack of confidence?

[czn]

Hi, Just wondered if anyone feels they lack the confidence they used to have when they were at work before children and are scared to even look for a job after being a stay at home mum for a while?

oh gosh yes, I used to do presentations to thousands of people and the thought of it scares the crap out of me these days. But I think it's just because I'm out of practice and I know that I could do it, but that it'd be harder because I've moved on from there.

However I'm confident in new ways now. When I was working I'd never have just started to talk to someone while out, but when you are out with kids you just do and I think that's an equally important part of confidence.

You'll be fine though, just decide what you want to do and go for it, motherhood is a valuable part of life for your own development - it can make you a better employee (more calm/able to cope/determined) than some flighty young thing who will have tantrums!

Hi, I used to teach and I did go back for a day a week after my first (who is now almost 4) I then stopped a year later as we moved and 2 years later I still haven't gone back (I now have another 2 so couldn't at the moment). The thought of going back terrifies me, I feel completely deskilled to work, other than in the home looking after my children. I was talking to a friend about it and she said it was fairly common. I hope if you are planning to return to work soon that you gain the confidence again and find the right job.

me too. After being made redundant 3.5 years ago I did some freelance legal secretary work around the children/school etc. That has now dried up and I have found myself looking for a job but aside from the fact that there are very few out there I feel totally unskilled for anything - even administration. Going back to a job scares the shite out of me. It doesnt help too that now I am looking for a job I thought about claiming Job Seekers allowance but Im not even entitled to that as I havent been employed during the last 2 tax years!

totally lacking confidence too - went back after first baby then back part time, got pregnant, went on leave again after less than a year and now back again part time - and finding it very, very hard. everything's moved on and colleagues don't get it as none have kids! It feels like I'm living a cliche sometimes

Yes, I felt that way -- and then I thought to myself, if I can take care of this wild, unpredictable, demanding child (who I love very deeply of course) then I can go back to work. I got up enough confidence to apply at 3 positions, we'll see!

Yes yes yes!! Don't know what happens but my confidence is totally shot. Used to be really confident and positive but have lost that and really would love it back.

Was made redundant during Mat leave, been SAHM mum since. DS only 15mths but I need to work for my own sanity. Longer your out of work the harder it gets, its not easy!

I am applying for jobs but its not without panic attacks and sleepless nights of can I can't I questions going round and round. Its a hard difficult situation to be in.