Two things I miss about working (besides a paycheck)
Now that I’m finally settled into my SAHM/WAHM role, I sometimes find myself longing for the workplace, but not for the reasons you might expect. Sure, my (adorable, precious) children drive me bonkers sometimes, and a little more (or a lot more) dough would be nice in our bank account, but these aren’t the things I long for the most. So what could possibly have me longing for the 8-5 more than sanity and a paycheck?
1. Work friends. I’m blessed to enjoy some incredible friendships outside of the workplace. But there’s just something different, something special, about work friends. You share so many inside jokes, that with just a look, you can send each other into hysterics. You share the same goals, projects and often the same aggravations. You have lunch, coffee and break room snacks together. You go on long road trips and open up your heart while enjoying some quality windshield time. And while you promise to stay in touch after you leave, it rarely happens. You still care about each other and perhaps keep in touch online, but it’s tough to stay connected in person.
2. Sick days. Today, I am ill. Pretty darn sick, in fact. My youngest is napping and my oldest is happy to cuddle and watch movies, so I’m lucky. Sitting on the couch is about all I care to do. But it’s really hard keeping up with two little ones when all you want to do is crawl under your covers. Back in the day, I would have just dropped them off at the sitter’s, called in sick, and returned back home to curl up in a ball. But this isn’t an option any more. Sure, if I was on my death bed, I’d ask my husband to come home, but as the sole provider, we avoid that as much as possible. And I know working moms use most of their sick days to take care of their sick children, anyways. I remember those days. But every great once in awhile, I could take one for myself. I miss that. More than I realized I would. But the upside? I’ve been sick far less often than when I worked full time and my girls were in daycare. Far less often.
While the two reasons listed above aren’t compelling enough to return to work full time, I’ll know what not to take for granted once I do. And that steady paycheck will be pretty nice, too.