Pushing past the fear of going back to work as a new mother

As I talk to her, I hear her panting as though she’s rushing to someplace seemingly important.

She had subtly mentioned leaving a meeting to answer my call, so I rescheduled our conversation for 2 pm at her request.

However, even at that time, she still seemed unsettled, yet agreed to continue our discussion further.

This is not unfamiliar- it's a glimpse into the life of a modern-day mother who does not require a badge of honour to prove her dedication to what is important- her family.

Catherine Wanderi, a first-time mom of one, is not shy to admit that this new expedition threw her off balance, and has been on a journey of self-discovery since.

“Motherhood is a unique journey for all and as a career woman, it can feel like a step back from our professional goals and aspirations. As a working mom, although I was on a three-month maternity leave, the thought of returning to work shortly after delivering really threw me off balance,” Wanderi recalls.

Upon returning to work, she admits to grappling with strong feelings of guilt.

The desire to be present for every milestone and cherish every moment her child experiences clashes with her demands of being financially stable and needing to pursue her career path.

“Even as I miss out on things my baby is going through, I constantly worry about her well-being while I’m trying to make ends meet, and this troubles me to date. Sometimes achieving balance is difficult,” Wanderi says.

She recalls her most difficult time in her 8-month journey as when she had to leave the country for an assignment.

“Sometimes work can be inflexible, and I remember one time when I had to leave the country, which proved to be my most difficult time as a mom. But I found ways of surviving- thank heavens for the tech advancement as I could video call home and catch up with the family. During this period, I had to plan myself before leaving to ensure the baby would be well cared for in my absence,” she says recollecting.  

Despite some difficulties she appreciates her partner who has supported her through this journey making it easier for her and her very understanding boss who allowed her some flexibility to visit home over lunch periods as she only lives a few blocks from work.

She advises career women to prioritize their happiness and self-care and believes that neglecting both can lead to failure both as a mom and as a professional.

Additionally, she says setting realistic and achievable goals for her workload helped reduce the pressure as she ensures to create space for family, and deliver at work.