I resigned
I used to enjoy working, I don’t quite know how to describe it but it was just fun spending time with colleagues, celebrating and struggling together. I enjoyed having the financial freedom to buy whatever I liked when I wanted to. I never thought I would be leaving my first full-time job so soon.
After my maternity leave ended, I went back to work. I started on a new project, a new role, with new colleagues and in a new environment that was vastly different from what I was used to. Needless to say, I struggled. My brain didn’t feel like it was working the same as before and I was sleep deprived from night shifts with my baby. I expected myself to jump straight into work and run at a 100% but I guess that wasn’t a very fair expectation for myself. On top of it all, after months of it just being baby and I, I was now forced to be apart from her.
After a couple days back in office, I knew I wasn’t mentally ready, yet I was still hesitant to leave my workplace. There were (and still are) a lot of ‘what if’s that I have not reconciled with yet. The uncertainties are plentiful and terrifying. I questioned my competence as an employee and as a mother. However, I had to acknowledge that persisting might be my downfall. I could not afford to push myself till I was beyond bone dry, to the point where I crumbled because I had to take care of my baby. I am allowed to tap out from work but never allowed to tap out from motherhood. So for the sake of my sanity, I decided to leave my job, take a break from working whilst slowly looking for another job.
TLDR; happy mother, happy baby.
I am lucky that I am able to take a break from working, to quit without anything lined up. The uncertainties are never ending but learning to live with the fear and uncertainties is something I tell myself to be brave about. They will always exist no matter where I am — I guess life is about swimming against and despite the currents.
(Unemployed and open to work but also let me sleep a little bit first please🥲 -severely sleep-deprived first time mom)
Finding a community of support became essential during this uncertain time. Connecting with other parents and hearing their stories through podcasts and online groups helped me realize I was not alone in this struggle. Sharing experiences and advice provided comfort and practical solutions to juggling work and parenting demands. Many first-time moms face the challenge of feeling isolated and overwhelmed after returning to work. I learned that seeking support and allowing myself time to adjust was crucial. It’s okay not to be perfect immediately and to prioritize mental health alongside career goals. Podcasts focusing on parenting and career transitions offered insights and encouragement. They highlighted that uncertainty is a common part of life, and leaning into supportive communities can make it manageable. Hearing how others navigated their fears helped me build the courage to take this step away from a traditional career path, at least temporarily. To anyone in a similar situation, I recommend embracing your emotions honestly and finding groups or platforms where you can share without judgment. It’s a journey, and having a support network makes all the difference when navigating periods of change and doubt.
Hi you reminded me of my struggles trying to retire. I was so stretched handling 4 companies and the last straw :a worldwide acquisition with KPMG in this merger exercise. I bit my teeth to hang on. I worked late into the night and burnt my weekends and public holidays. It was suicide and a nightmare. My pet dog was neglected and I didn't bring it for long regular walks. It lay slump beneath my home desk. When I wrap up at 2am it followed me to bed. I also have church activities which I couldn't bring it along. My work hours are not only killing me but my poor innocent dog hungry for my time. After 2 years of slog I threw in the towel. God is good. He offered me a part time job.I volunteered in my free time. I bring doggy for lunch at pet cafes. We go to the beach. We go for hikes.... I lost my hard earned bonuses and a huge chunk of income. . Bosses cannot see my sacrifice. They see reports being made and deadline being met. But cannot see the amount of sweat and time gotten in...I was burnt out. He refused to pay my meal allowance per the handbook for the last six months!😡 Retired life is still busy. I now have time for me time, church, mother, friends, a small time job and most importantly my dog. He already has a hard life as a rescue and I don't want him to go through separation anxiety waiting anxiously if I'll come home. I hope to give him his best years. God has plans for us. Follow your heart.