Has anyone started a new job after maternity leave?

[Bagabee]

I gave up a much loved job whilst on maternity leave and now very much regret doing so. I have started working part-time after a year off and am finding it almost impossible - hard to remember old skills and knowlegde / totally new environment / feeling of deep regret at having to start over. Anyone had a similar experience and able to offer any tips / encouragement? Can't help dwelling on how wonderful it would have been to return to old colleagues. Thank you

I think most of us have some of those thoughts about any new job - I know that almost every job I've ever had, I hated for about the first month! Change is hard.

After having children I'm also convinced we have less brain cells to use at work and it takes a little while to get back into the swing of things. I had 2 years off and was very under confident for quite a while - but it did get better over time.

Try not to dwell too much on past regrets and look for the good things about your current job. Nothing is forever and it may well turn into a great job. If it doesn't, then look for another.

I had to leave my job after mat leave as I left London to 'come home'.

Finding another job was a nightmare, so I set up my own business!

Very rewarding and I can do as much as I want, when I want, around ds, and often take him with me so no childcare costs!

Look on it as a new challenge that will make you stronger. My Gran beleived in fate - everything happens for a reason - so hang in there!