How Hard Is It Really to Transition Back to Work?

Hi, My name is C.. I'm new here but liking what I'm seeing so far. I have not worked since 2001 because I was married and didn't have to and since the divorce, I am looking for a job. I'm feeling all kinds of different things but I think that once I get back into the working world and get used to things, I'm going to be happier because I won't feel so down and out about myself. I'll meet new friends and who knows...may even like the job...lol. So hang in there and think happy thoughts.

You could try to work with a staffing/temporary agency. You could try out different companies and even positions before you commit. Usually, good staffing companies have software tutorials/training modules that you can take at home to brush up on your skills.

Decide what you like and GO FOR IT. If you have to go to school at least you are working towards what you love to do. I worked full time, went to school full time and I have 3 children. I kept seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and it got me through it.

K.,

Between now and July, consider taking a class (online or in person) at your local community college - something to beef up your computer skills is always good. Or join a professional association related to the job you want - either one that meets in person or one that has a listserv, newsletter, etc. You can get invaluable networking contacts and leads on jobs that way. If you can get someone to babysit, volunteer somewhere. Even if it's the nursery at your church or YMCA so you can have your child with you. Basically, don't wait until July - get busy now so that your resume will show that you've stayed involved, and you'll get back into the working mindset. I went back to work after my daughter turned two and, while it was horribly stressful to set up the child care, I abolutely love being back in the work force. (Though I wish someone would come cook dinner and do the dishes for me!)

Good luck,
S.

I have been a stay at home mom for 27 years. My youngest just turned 9 and is in the 3rd grade but I also have a 10 year old with special needs who has required so very much of my time not allowing me to return into the work place and adding the much needed extra income. However this past Aug. I have returned to work!! Granted I am working at the kids school so I am still close should an emergency come up but mostly I don't see my kids until the end of each school day. I LOVE WORKING!!! I look forward each morning waking up and getting ready for work. The extra income is nice too : }

There is something for everyone out there. Even a 27 year stay at home mom who is almost 50.
Good luck... I know you'll do just fine.

F.

Well I was only out of my work for a little over two months but I work in a carpet mill, and it was pretty hard because of working and having someone to watch my son, I got lucky my parents and my husbands aunt have helped a lot...my job would probaly be a little different than what you probaly do but once you get out of the work envirment and have to go back to it you have to learn a whole new schedule of working, not just feeding and changing diapers anymore

well i am still at home after 5 years. I have a 3yr old that i have at home still too. Ive been looking for work for the past 6 months because of well what most people go through and well TRYING to find a babysitter, TRYING to get an interview, TRYING to GEt a job has proven to be harder then staying home and dealing with all that! however im sure you finished high school and had previous experience. however me, i quit HS and still dont have my GED, never really had a job longer then a year. so its reall tough and hard for me. i wish you luck!

It was and wasn't hard for me. I went back to work when my daughter was 4mos old. I nursed her until she was 13 mo. My sis-in-law has an in-home daycare and was only 8 minutes from work. So, I nursed her on my break and she had breastmilk bottles for morning and afternoon snack. After she weaned herself, it was tough for me to leave her. But, fortunately, she was with family and played with her cousins all day. When I saw her playing and having fun it was easier to let her stay.
Have you thought about being a Mary Kay Consultant? I am a Sales Director and am always looking for sharp women to join my team. It is perfect for someone that needs the extra money but doesn't want to go back to work. And the best part is you can work it around your schedule! Call me @ ###-###-#### or e-mail me ____@____.com and I will tell you more about it.
Good Luck!