Got a new baby coming in 3 months and my company is giving me 8 weeks paid leave. Part of me is super excited to be there, but another part is worried about what people will think or if I'll fall behind at work. Anyone else take significant time off? How did you handle the anxiety about coming back? My boss says don't worry about it but you know how it is.
Your company sounds great for offering that. The nervous part is totally normal but honestly those early weeks are when you really bond with your kid. Lean into it even if it feels awkward at first.
That eight weeks will change your perspective on everything. Don't worry about what your coworkers think. This is your kid we're talking about and you'll never get this time back.
The imposter syndrome is real but you got this. I took paternity leave with both my boys and it was the best decision I made. Your wife and baby both need you there and you need that time with them.
Eight weeks is solid. Don't overthink it. Yeah, it's weird being home full time at first, but those early weeks with a newborn are special. You'll figure out the rhythm.
Eight weeks is amazing. Don't feel nervous about it, that's a gift not a lot of dads get. Those first weeks with a newborn are chaos but they go by so fast. You're gonna want that time more than you know.
Take the leave and don't apologize for it. Your company gave it to you for a reason. Those first couple months go by so fast and you don't get them back.
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The nervous part is totally normal. I was worried about the same thing before my first was born. Honestly though, being home with your kid is one of the best things you can do for your mental game as a new dad.