Returning to work after having a baby is a journey that comes with a mix of emotions—excitement, anxiety, and a deep sense of transformation. Parenthood has a way of reshaping priorities, giving you clarity on what truly matters, and teaching you resilience in ways you never imagined.
When I stepped back into the professional world after having my child, I quickly realised that the environment I worked in mattered more than ever. The toxic workplaces I had experienced before—spaces where stress, negativity, and unrealistic demands thrived—were no longer acceptable. Parenthood had given me the courage to set boundaries and recognise the importance of protecting my mental health, not just for myself but for my family as well.
The Decision to Create My Own Path
After reflecting on my values and experiences, I made the life-changing decision to leave behind environments that drained my energy and start my own business. I wanted to create something meaningful that aligned with my passions, strengths, and, most importantly, my values.
Drawing from my own journey, I focused on building a business that advocates for:
• Parents of premature babies in NICU/SCBU. I know firsthand how isolating and overwhelming this experience can be. My goal is to provide empathy, education, and support to families navigating this intense chapter of life.
• Neurodivergent families. As someone who is neurodivergent, with a husband and child who are as well, I understand the unique challenges and strengths that come with this journey. I want to empower families to embrace their differences and feel supported in a world that often doesn’t understand.
Choosing Mental Health Over Toxicity
Walking away from toxic environments wasn’t an easy decision, but it was necessary. After becoming a parent, I could no longer afford to work in spaces that damaged my mental health. Parenthood taught me that my time and energy are precious. If I wanted to show up for my family and be the best version of myself, I needed to work in a way that protected my wellbeing.
Starting my own business wasn’t just about escaping toxicity—it was about building something that reflects the change I want to see in the world. It was about creating a space where families feel seen, heard, and supported during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Lessons from the Journey
The journey to becoming an entrepreneur and advocate has been transformative, both personally and professionally. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way:
• Your mental health matters. No job is worth sacrificing your wellbeing. Setting boundaries and choosing environments that align with your values is vital.
• You can rewrite your story. If you find yourself in a toxic environment, know that you have the power to create change, even if it feels daunting at first.
• Parenthood is a strength. The resilience, problem-solving, and empathy you develop as a parent are invaluable skills in any career.
• Purpose fuels success. When your work aligns with your passions and values, it doesn’t just feel good—it also drives meaningful impact.
A Message to Parents and Advocates
If you’re a parent returning to work, or if you’ve ever considered stepping away from environments that no longer serve you, know that you’re not alone. Choosing to prioritise your mental health and pursuing work that brings purpose can transform your life. It’s not an easy decision, but it’s one that can lead to incredible growth and fulfilment.
For me, becoming an advocate for parents of premature babies and neurodivergent families has given my life a renewed sense of meaning. It’s proof that even in the face of challenges, we can choose to build something better—not just for ourselves, but for those who need it most.
If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear your story. What challenges have you faced in returning to work, and how have you found your purpose? Let’s start a conversation and support one another in building lives and careers filled with meaning.
Final Thoughts
Stepping away from toxic workplaces and building my own path has been one of the most empowering decisions of my life. It’s taught me that change is possible when we prioritise our mental health and align our work with our values. Whether you’re a parent, an advocate, or someone looking to create a meaningful career, I hope my story inspires you to take the first step toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Let’s connect. Let’s support each other. Together, we can build a world where work is purposeful, supportive, and aligned with our passions.
#ReturningToWork #MentalHealth #Parenthood #NICU #SCBU #NeurodivergentFamilies #WorkWithPurpose
The bad and your parenting journey 