Just went back to work after 2 weeks paternity leave and it's brutal | DadHQ

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Just went back to work after 2 weeks paternity leave and it's brutal

4d ago·1 min read

I'm only on day 3 back at the office and I'm already struggling. I keep checking my phone to see if my wife needs me. The meetings feel pointless when my newborn is at home. My boss seems annoyed that I'm asking to work from home some days even though my company says we can do hybrid. Anyone else dealing with this guilt? How long did it take before you stopped feeling like you were abandoning your family to sit in pointless meetings?

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Comments(5)

MMikeRegular3d ago

The phone checking thing gets me every time. I'm in the same boat right now actually. It gets a little better by week two but those first few days back are honestly harder than the actual newborn stage somehow.

SSteveNew Dad4d ago

Day 3 is still the hardest part honestly. I've got two kids and I still remember that guilt coming back after paternity leave. The meetings will feel less pointless once your brain adjusts to being back in work mode.

DDerekRegular4d ago

Those first weeks back are rough, man. The phone checking thing is real but it does get easier around week 2-3. Your wife's got this and you're doing the right thing by being present at work, even if it feels pointless right now.

CChris M.Regular4d ago

I had the same exact problem when I went back after paternity leave. Kept refreshing the messages expecting updates I wasn't getting. The guilt is real. But you're setting a good example for your kid and your family needs the income. You're doing the right thing even if it feels terrible.

NNate K.New Dad2d ago

Day 3 back is still the hardest part. You're going through withdrawal. Just keep reminding yourself why you came back and that you'll see your baby at the end of the day. It gets easier after the first week, even though it sucks right now.