Just took my paternity leave and honestly I'm terrified to go back | DadHQ

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Just took my paternity leave and honestly I'm terrified to go back

AlexNew Dad

3d ago·1 min read

8 weeks at home with the baby and I've never felt more fulfilled but also more afraid. I'm worried I'll miss everything. My boss already texted me about jumping on a project before I'm even back. The money is good but I feel like I'm choosing between being present or being responsible. Did anyone else struggle with this guilt coming back to work? How do you let go of the feeling that you're failing both sides?

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Comments(3)

TToddNew Dad1d ago

Those 8 weeks are going to change your entire perspective on what matters. Going back to work after that kind of time is tough but you're not losing anything. You're just shifting how you show up. And honestly, being a more fulfilled dad actually makes you better at work too.

JJoshuaNew Dad2d ago

8 weeks is incredible though. Most guys don't get that and you're lucky. That said, the transition back is legit hard because you KNOW what you're missing now instead of just imagining it. It does get easier, but those first few weeks back will be rough.

CChris M.New Dad2d ago

This is so real. I came back from 6 weeks and the anxiety was brutal. Kept thinking they'd forgotten me or that I was going to mess something up by not being there. But honestly the daycare people know what they're doing, and your bond with your kid isn't that fragile. You've got this.