So, I've been wrestling with the decision about what to do after baby #3 makes his or her arrival... There are concerns around finances, losing that salary, paying for 3 in full time daycare, all of the rushing around 5 days of the week. Is it all worth it? For my rather smallish post-daycare expense paycheck? But then there is the benefit of the HEALTH benefits and other perks....hmmm...
I would LOVE to stay at home with my children...LOVE it...even with all of the challenges, the ups/downs, the lack of adult interaction, limits around intellectual thought...all those hazards- I would be exponentially happier being home.
I say this knowing that I can still work part-time if I choose to...my chosen career field lends itself to that type of situation. I could still bring in some income, keep myself active in my field AND have the added bonus of more time with my lovely children.
On the OTHER side: Should I give up my job which is ideal in many ways, provides a decent income, is pretty safe/stable even in this economy, has a relatively inexpensive health plan and is a very nice addition to my resume? I really enjoy the job- my only complaint being that at times, I am a bit bored. There is an ebb and flow to the workload (which can also be seen as a benefit). I like the people I work with and the things I learn...I like that I am becoming more and more knowledgeable about autism...I like that I am positive resource to families & even other professionals at times.
I just don't want to regret leaving the job...but I feel the responsibility to inform my employer if I am not returning so that the job can transition smoothly to someone else. As far as I know, they are not hiring a temporary sub during my maternity leave. I feel terrible to take 3 months off and then say, 'Oh, by the way, I'm not going to be back'...I know I have the right to do that but it doesn't sit well with me. I feel that decision-making time is NOW.
I recognize that this is a personal decision for everyone--these are just my thoughts as I consider what might be the best option for our family. I've been on both sides of this one now & there is something to be said for each of the various scenarios that can play out. I'll let you know when I figure it out...
3 comments:
Ugh! Good luck w/ your decision making - for the time being my work decision was made for me because I couldn't find a job. But it would be really difficult to leave a good job! I'll be anxious to hear what you decide.
it's funny, isn't it, how we think we've made a choice and then suddenly we're remaking and remaking the same choice over and over again? I mean, I'm working, with only one kiddo and a very good nana to take care of him... yet every month or so I think - maybe i should stay home!
having said that... how long is maternity leave? when does it begin? is there a possibility of a 6mos leave? or even a 12 mos one? so the little one isn't in daycare when he/she is so very little?
i would suggest the work at home option, but i dunno if that accomplishes what you're looking for--- which sounds (to me) like a bit o' peace. cramming work into home with 3 kids is a bit- wow.
i do know that you'll be able to handle whichever you choose. and we'll be praying for *all* of you!
It sounds like you have a very difficult decision ahead of you. Pros on both sides and cons on both sides.
I would say, that good jobs are not one of a kind...it is always possible to find a good one (in theory, of course). But your children will definitely only be this little and impressionable once...and that is right now.
Then again, I really think that mothers are most needed at home when the kids are teenagers...just *think* what (and who) they can get into if you aren't at home after school. I think I just broke into a sweat. And THAT is when I am supposed to be back at work. Ugh.
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