Just went back to work after paternity leave and I'm already losing it | DadHQ

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Just went back to work after paternity leave and I'm already losing it

2w ago·1 min read

Took 8 weeks off when my son was born and it was incredible. Now I'm back to the office 3 days a week and I feel like I'm missing everything. Wife says I'm being dramatic but I literally cried when he said a new word and I wasn't there to see it first. How do you guys handle this? Does it get easier or am I just going to feel guilty for the next 18 years?

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Comments(3)

DDavidNew Dad2w ago

I went back part-time at first which helped the transition. Not sure if that's an option for you but easing back in for a month or two made the shock way less brutal. The guilt doesn't go away but at least you're not drowning in it.

VVincentRegular2w ago

Eight weeks is killer because you get used to that rhythm and then suddenly you're back to conference calls and you're like wait, what happened to my kid? The adjustment is real. It gets easier but those first few weeks back are rough.

BBrandonNew Dad2w ago

Three days a week is actually pretty solid though. You're still getting four days to be Dad. Make those three office days count and don't bring that stress home on the other days. Easier said than done but that's the move.