Took 6 weeks off after our third kid was born and it was amazing. Got to be there for everything. But now I'm back in the office and I'm watching my wife juggle everything alone while I'm stuck in meetings. The guilt is real. She told me not to feel bad but I can't help it. Anyone else deal with this?
That post-leave guilt is real and honestly it shouldn't be. You were present for your kid's early weeks which matters. The work will still be there and your company will figure it out. Don't let that guilt eat you alive because your family needed you.
Your newborn doesn't care about your productivity numbers but she definitely cares about having you there. Those six weeks were an investment in your relationship with her.
Welcome back to the chaos. The guilty feeling usually fades once you realize life goes on and your boss probably didn't even notice the stuff you're worried about. Focus on being present now when you are at work and with your family when you're home.
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Six weeks is a gift and you shouldn't feel guilty for taking it. The company isn't going to fall apart without you and your third kid only gets those early weeks once. Give yourself permission to be a little behind without making it a referendum on your commitment.