Last autumn, I found my work-life balance completely out of sync, leading me to make the difficult decision to resign from my job. After two months away, I returned to the same position, but this time on my own terms. It felt a bit like being an office boomerang, but that break provided me the space to reflect on my personal and professional aspirations. As a mom, I wish for a maternity leave when my kids are 4 and 6! Here are five key lessons I learned from my experience of quitting my job:
1. The Comparison Game is Misleading.
My brief hiatus allowed me to see both sides of the working mom vs. stay-at-home mom debate. Each role presents its own set of challenges. While commuting, I often envied moms enjoying leisurely mornings at yoga or coffee shops. Yet, once I transitioned to being at home, I quickly realized I craved that hustle and bustle. Surprisingly, I found comfort in my daily commute—yes, even when it included an unfortunate fender-bender!
2. Don’t Hold Back—Speak Up!
Being a people pleaser, I often struggle with negotiation, saying “yes” until I reach a breaking point. Ironically, shortly after I quit, my former employer made positive changes and offered me my job back. With nothing to lose, I finally asked for the flexibility I needed to balance work and family life, and to my surprise, my new boss agreed!
3. Let Go of Mom Guilt.
During my break, I reveled in the joy of field trips and one-on-one time with my younger son. I learned from my stay-at-home mom friends that it’s okay to have adult conversations while the kids play. I also realized that too much time with the kids can backfire; it’s essential for my happiness and patience to have breaks. My son, Oliver, even showed signs of frustration when I picked him up early from school, teaching me that every child needs their independence and routine.
4. Embrace the Power of No.
This lesson is incredibly challenging for me. My perfectionist tendencies often lead to overcommitting. Whether it’s attending social events, school activities, or even family outings, I’ve learned that when I feel overwhelmed, it’s okay to decline invitations. Protecting my energy is crucial to maintaining balance in my life.
5. Pursue Your Passions.
When I decided to return to work, I had to explain my decision to my boys. I told them that my job at the magazine needed me and that I was excited about the new opportunities. I emphasized that following my passions in writing and sharing experiences enriches my life and benefits them too. After a fulfilling day at work, I return home more present and engaged, ready to share quality time together.
In summary, my journey taught me that balance is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Embracing both my career and family life has led to greater fulfillment. If you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination methods, check out this informative resource on Intracervical Insemination. For couples navigating their fertility journey, Make a Mom is an excellent authority on the subject. Additionally, for those looking to expand their knowledge about pregnancy and home insemination, IVF Babble offers valuable insights.