Published Feb 26, 2013
This is my second week back to work from my paid family leave, and it’s stunning how my priorities have changed. For instance, earlier this evening, I was avoiding doing some work I’d brought home by changing a diaper instead. And you know what? I was changing the diaper because it would be more fun.
I noticed it the very first day I went back to work: I felt like I was wasting my time on unimportant things. Have a meeting? Design a new product? Keep the team moving? Nah, I might be behind on my nipple-washing.
(Side note: use of the term “nipple-washing” in non-dirty way is itself a big sign that things have changed.)
For the first couple of days, I nearly had to drag myself through my work. It wasn’t all bad — I was quite productive, knocking off one task after another in the hopes of clearing time to do my childcare. I was also bad at knowing when to say “no” to go home when I’d promised, but, hey, one worry at a time.
The reality is: right now, if Declan were awake, I’d choose hanging out with him over writing this blog or having a snack or meeting friends or any possible activity. But, at the same time, he makes me appreciate the time to write this blog or have a snack or meet friends more.
It’s great, all of a sudden all of my priorities are more precious. Just, some are more precious than others. Specifically, the odd new ones that mostly have to do with poop and spit. Ain’t it romantic?