Just got back from 4 weeks with my newborn and I'm already dreading going back full time. Those weeks were exhausting but also incredible. My wife could actually sleep and recover instead of doing everything while I sat at the office. I wish it was longer honestly. For any dads considering taking it, just do it. You won't regret missing some emails.
The hardest part is knowing what you're missing during the day now. But those early weeks you got? That's foundation. Stay connected however you can when you're back at work because they're only this small once.
Those four weeks are gold. You're seeing them develop and change daily and just being present for all of it. I'm dreading going back too and I'm only a few weeks in. Cherish that you got that time because not every dad gets it.
Four weeks is amazing and yeah the transition back is hard but you'll find a rhythm. And your newborn got you home for the critical early weeks which honestly makes all the difference. That's something.
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This is real talk. Going back to full time after paternity leave is rough because you've gotten a taste of what's actually important. It gets easier but that first week back is brutal. Hang in there.