How’s everyone handling going back to work?

Both. I want the routine back and time to focus on something else too but feel guilty for needing that
Felt it with my 1st too

I was nervous. I requested a phased return, which i am so glad work granted me. I did 2 weeks at 20% and two weeks at 75% before going back to 37.5 hours. Felt like I was missing out on too much so dropped to 30 hours and I find its a nice ballance. I enjoy going to work because I am me and not mum. I do feel a bit of guilt that im at work and not at home. But im also glad that shes learning so much at nursery and doing things I would never think to do at nursery

I’m not looking forward on returning back to work I’m enjoying my time with my baby

In case it's helpful, my kids are nearly 3 and nearly 6. I returned after 15 month maternity leaves with both of them.

For me it feels really important to work and have that financial independence even though I don't expect I'll ever need it. I also like being a role model to my two boys that men and women can both contribute financially as well as on childcare, household labour and the emotional side of things.

It does get easier in terms of the day to day and you find your own balance where you can be mummy but also drink hot drinks, have adult conversations and use your brain to hard things. It's really hard in the beginning so cut yourself some slack!