Been out for 6 weeks and my boss keeps texting me about projects. I know I should be present with my newborn but every notification makes me think I'm going to come back to find someone else got my promotion. Is anyone else dealing with this? How do you actually disconnect?
Chris here from Seattle - I get it, the guilt is real. But paternity leave exists for a reason. Silence the notifications for a few weeks, be present, and trust your team. You're not falling behind, you're building something that matters more.
Those texts from your boss are a test, honestly. You're on leave. Ignore them or set an out of office auto reply. Your presence with your kid right now is the project that matters. Trust me, work will still be there in 6 weeks.
Falling behind is a myth your anxiety is feeding you. You're not falling behind, you're building something irreplaceable with your kid. The work will still be there and honestly, most of those 'urgent' emails aren't actually urgent. Enjoy the time.
Don't fall for it. I took 6 weeks when my daughter was born and I almost did the same thing - trying to stay plugged in 'just a little bit.' It ruins the whole point of being present. Set a firm boundary now or you'll regret it.
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Those six weeks go fast, man. Your boss will survive without those texts - your newborn won't remember you being glued to your phone. Set boundaries now or you'll regret it. The projects will still be there when you get back.