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Having It All

One Mom's Story of a Short Maternity Leave

By Susan C. Lavington

So if I love being a mother why head back to work so soon? Well, I also love my job. Love is a strange word to use about a job, but it is true for me. I am blessed to work at a terrific company, have a supportive boss, wonderful co-workers, a brilliant staff and challenging work. Isn't that all anyone ever wants in a job? I've had many jobs that are not so great, so I know how fortunate I am. But more than just loving my job, I love my career. I need to be with people; I need the mental stimulation and challenges that I find in my professional career. I've worked hard to get where I am and I have no intention of giving it up.

I always knew I would want to go back to work. Everyone told me that I wouldn't know how I felt about returning to work until I actually held my babies for the first time. They were right – I was surprised at how much I loved the girls, but I was more surprised that I yearned to be back at work right away.

I've struggled with these feelings. I feel guilty that I don't feel guilty about going back to work. I've determined that my feelings must be similar to what many new fathers feel. No one questions a father's desire to return to work after his children are born. It is expected. If no one questions that a working father can also be a terrific parent, then why are we so doubtful about working mothers? Why is it so hard to believe that a mother can love her children intensely, yet also want to work full time? It is important to me that people understand I'm not returning to work because I'm sick of taking care of my girls. I'll never get tired of them. I don't need time away from them, but I do need time to myself. My career gives me that.

Want to see more?

• CEO of Everything: Balancing Career and Family
• To Work or Not to Work: The Mother's Dilemma
• Moms at Work: Is Returning to Work Right for You?
• Talk about it!

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