Stevie Farndon explains how she balances motherhood and work, and why the experience has been so fulfilling.
What motivated you to return to dental sales after having your daughter, Camden?
What motivated me to return to dentistry after having Camden was a combination of practical and personal reasons. Officially, I returned to work after five months because I was the primary breadwinner in the family. However, the deeper motivation was more complex.
Motherhood, while incredibly rewarding, can also be a very isolating experience. I found myself feeling quite lonely compared to the bustling, interactive environment I was accustomed to in my professional life. My healthcare visitor even cautioned me that transitioning back to such a fast-paced work environment might be challenging. Despite these concerns, I realised that I wasn’t feeling like myself anymore. I felt like I had lost a part of my identity.
Returning to dentistry allowed me to reconnect with my sense of self and regain my confidence. It wasn’t just about the financial necessity; it was also about reclaiming my personal and professional identity, which had always been a significant part of who I am. Balancing motherhood with my career has been an adjustment, but it has also been incredibly fulfilling and has made me appreciate both roles even more.
How did you manage the transition back to professional life while balancing motherhood? Were there any challenges?
Transitioning back to professional life while balancing motherhood was indeed a challenging journey, but also incredibly rewarding. My fiancé has been an amazing dad, really stepping up to take over ‘daddy daycare’ whenever I have work commitments. His support has been invaluable and has made a huge difference in easing the transition.
Additionally, my daughter has a fantastic relationship with both sets of grandparents, who are always willing to lend a helping hand. We also have an amazing childminder who provides structure and care for our daughter, which has been crucial in maintaining a stable routine.
Despite these supports, the initial adjustment period was tough. I often found myself exhausted from sleepless nights with our daughter, only to face a full day of work. Sleep training our daughter was a game-changer, as it allowed us to regain our energy and better manage our responsibilities. Taking care of ourselves meant we could be more present and energetic for our daughter and our professional roles.
How has work positively impacted your children and other loved ones?
Returning to work has had a profound and positive impact on my family and myself. My daughter, now 22 months old, has experienced the ups and downs with me. Initially, I struggled with the emotional toll of balancing work and motherhood. There were days when I felt overwhelmed and didn’t want to face the world. It took me a long time to admit that I wasn’t okay because I wanted to seem strong. However, acknowledging my struggles and seeking professional help made me stronger.
Finding the right role in my career turned my personal life around. While I work hard, it has allowed us as a family to create many wonderful memories together. Without my career, I wouldn’t be as motivated or able to provide the same opportunities for my family.
Tips for others returning to their careers:
- Listen to yourself: The only opinion that matters about when you should return to work is yours. Drown out any negative comments and focus on what feels right for you
- Acknowledge your emotions: It’s okay to admit that you’re struggling. Seeking help when you need it is a sign of strength, not weakness
- Protect your wellbeing: Noticing how much my daughter picked up on my sadness was heart-wrenching. Ensuring my own happiness allowed me to run a happier household and provide a better life for her
- Lean on your support system: My fiancé and family have been incredible rocks during this transition. Their support and listening ears made all the difference
- Find the right role: Returning to a job that allows you to feel like yourself again is crucial. It helps you reclaim your identity and provides a sense of fulfilment
- Build a community: Meeting other women in similar situations and empowering each other has been immensely helpful. Sharing experiences and support can make the journey smoother.
Balancing professional life and motherhood is no easy feat, but with the right support systems and mindset, it’s entirely possible to thrive in both areas.
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