executive mom
I had my son at 38. While on maternity leave, I pursued an executive position which is what I had worked for for all these years. Despite taking 3 months off, I still felt that I needed to get the hang of this mommy thing. I was still nursing my son so I was pumping, storing and nursing as soon as I got home.
Breastfeeding definitely helps to develop a bond with your child. However, that was the only quality time we were spending together. I was 50 miles from my child who was home with my mother. I was exhausted. After a few months in my new position, I cried to another friend who was a Chief HR officer that I just didn’t want to do it anymore. An experienced mother who worked with me told me that my hormones were still fluctuating.
I had to make a very difficult decision. I had an opportunity to take another full-time position, but I decided to use my experience to consult. I wanted the flexibility to work from home to take care of myself and to reconnect with my son.
I have four friends who are in their 40′s, in high power positions, who all nursed who are still balancing long workdays and motherhood. One still commutes an hour. It can be done! However, I just didn’t want it to be me. This year has been wonderful. I think I am ready to get back out there.
Trackbacks