The time has come. You are replacing sneakers for heels, active wear for skinny jeans, and daring to wear white in public. After a season at home where you were knee high in nappies, bottles, pureed food and half naked most of the time acting as a human milk machine, you are heading back to work.
This season change can come with many emotions. Some are excited and relieved, others are daunted and overwhelmed. Whatever mix of the above you feel, you are amazing!! As Beyonce famously said, “strong enough to bear them children, then get back to business, who run the world GIRLS!”.
However, the reality of being a working mum does not include backup dancers, music pumping and hair and makeup on demand. The reality is you are packing lunches, school bags, daycare bags, getting up two hours earlier just to make it all happen, and then throwing on some mascara in the car as you race to work.
I’ve heard many comments made about working mums over the six years of being one. Living in Sydney with no family around, my return to work so early after having babies was not my first choice, it was a need to keep our bills paid. Not everyone falls into this category, mums return to work because it revives them, they are better for it, and in return a happier mum. Whatever category you fall into, and however you feel about your return to work, I’m here to tell you, YOU CAN DO IT!
I have pumped milk in a toilet at work, I’ve rocked up and literally put mascara on and brushed my hair in the lift. I’ve laughed and I’ve cried.
There were many routines we tried until we found one that worked. We have the kids schedule on the fridge, we have a family calendar on the wall, my husband and I have our own calendar apps linked. I found I work better when I can just look at something and know what is happening that day. Things don’t last long in my head, I need it out on paper. I pack kids lunches the night before, I get them to lay out their own uniforms and pack their own school bags. Because we all have to be out the door by 7am. I even get my own clothes out the night before. I’ve found preparation is key to a smooth morning with everyone still smiling.
Your capacity is building, your wisdom is growing, and the flexible aren’t easily snapped! Here’s to all my working mammas out there. YOU GOT THIS!
Em
