Paternity leave ends tomorrow. Dreading it.

May 1·1 min read

I've had 10 weeks with my newborn and honestly it's been the best stretch of my life. Yeah I was exhausted and yeah I didn't shower some days, but being there for feedings at 3am and watching my kid discover their own hands for the first time... man. Going back to the office tomorrow feels like I'm abandoning them. My wife keeps saying I'm not but it doesn't feel that way. Did anyone else struggle with coming back? Does it get easier or am I just gonna feel guilty forever?

4 comments134 views

Comments(4)

CChris R.RegularMay 2

Going back after paternity leave is genuinely one of the hardest transitions as a dad. But you've got this. Stay connected with your kid through the work day even if it's just a quick text to your partner about what baby did.

EEvan M.New DadMay 1

I feel for you on this one. That paternity leave is like a bubble and popping back into work life is rough. Make sure you protect your time with the baby when you get home. Don't let work stress bleed into those hours.

MMarcusNew DadMay 1

The dread is real but you've got this. Ten weeks of memories with your kid is something they'll never take away. The work part sucks but you'll find your rhythm. Just don't let the job consume everything.

GGreg W.RegularMay 2

The transition back is real and it hits hard. Those 10 weeks you got to see everything. The small stuff you're going to miss gets magnified once you're back in the grind. Stay strong and remember you've got evenings and weekends.