Return to work

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In today's environment with the high cost of living, it may not be affordable on one income.  There are many factors to consider before going back to work and each families situation is different.

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After 8 months I decided to go back to work, part time initially so it allowed baby and I time to adjust.  Three months afterwards, when I felt he was adapting well at daycare, I changed to full time.

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I made the decision to go back to work not only from a financial perspective but also considered my career to be a big part of that decision.  My consideration was more the future and that in a few years time my son would be in school. If I stayed at home for longer it would be difficult to get back into the work environment.  I firmly believed that I could have the best of both worlds.  It has helped that I work in a flexible environment where the employer considers the work life balance of young mothers.  

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You do have your guilt moments...but I've learnt to find ways to ensure that we both spend quality time with our son daily.  It is tough since 'work' starts again due to household responsibilities. My husband & I share the responsibilities equally and that has tremendously helped to ease back into work life. 

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So my advice would be to talk to your partner and make decisions together before returning to work.  Talk about the practical aspects and revisit if something is not working.  Speak with your employer too and see if a flexible arrangement is possible eg start and finish times, working from home, part time etc.  Find what works for you and your family; some things might be trial and error but that's okay. 

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Next...Career change