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I Don’t Long for My Child When I’m Away
Every time I step away from my little one for a while, I inevitably get asked, “You must really miss him, don’t you?”
Actually, I don’t.
I’m a freelance writer lucky enough to spend my days at home with my son while pursuing a career that I genuinely enjoy. My schedule is filled with deadlines, calls, and projects that fuel my passion. And yes, I have a lively toddler who loves to play and thinks I’m the best at rocking him to sleep.
Sometimes, my work calls for me to be away from him, whether it’s just another room writing or traveling to cover a story. Yet, every time I’m engaged in something that doesn’t involve him, I’m met with that familiar question about missing my child. People often tilt their heads, raising their eyebrows, seemingly perplexed by how I could possibly manage time apart from him.
I do the polite thing and say it’s tough and that I can’t wait to return home, which is partly true. But honestly, I want to express that it isn’t hard at all. I cherish my career and the unique opportunities it presents. When I’m engrossed in writing or in a meeting, my focus is entirely on the task at hand. I feel a sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from doing what I love, and I relish those moments of creation.
I even look forward to the times I spend away from my child—not because he’s exhausting, but because I enjoy engaging in activities that don’t revolve around him. My life is enriched by my career, friendships, and personal projects that I can pursue solo. While I adore my time with my son, I also value the time I spend away, indulging in my professional life.
So, no, I don’t miss my child while I’m working.
There’s an unspoken pressure on mothers to express guilt when they’re away from their children. Dads rarely face the same scrutiny; they go to work without being asked if they miss their kids. Society seems to expect mothers to lament their dual roles as caregivers and professionals, as if they should be yearning to be home with their children at all times. But that’s not my reality. I choose to work—not just to support my family but for my personal growth. I take pride in building a fulfilling career, and I shouldn’t have to apologize for that.
Of course, the occasional guilt creeps in. That nagging voice whispers that I’m a bad mom or that I’m setting my son up for disappointment. It’s a voice fueled by fear and insecurity, and while I strive to silence it, it can be persistent. Yes, there are moments when I miss my son, but those feelings arise just before I see him or right after I say goodbye—not when I’m focused on my work. When I’m engaged in my job, my attention is dedicated to that passion.
So, when you ask me if I miss my son while I’m away, I might nod and give the expected response, but I won’t be sharing the whole truth. Because the truth is, I find joy and accomplishment in my life beyond motherhood. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.
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Summary
In this piece, the author shares her perspective on not missing her child while working. Addressing the societal expectations placed on mothers, she emphasizes the joy she finds in her career and the importance of personal fulfillment outside of motherhood. The article encourages mothers to embrace their passions without guilt.