Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Returning to Work

Returning to work after being a stay-at-home mom is a huge transition—and it comes with emotions that are rarely talked about. In this episode, Carrie and Angie dive into the guilt, grief, anxiety, and even excitement that accompany stepping back into the workforce.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Why guilt is often the first emotion moms feel when returning to work—and how it can sneak into every part of your day.

• The role of grief in the transition and why not feeling sad can sometimes trigger guilt.

• How anxiety and catastrophizing can make the adjustment harder, and strategies to recognize and manage these feelings.

• The split-attention effect: balancing work responsibilities with family life without losing your mind.

• Why excitement about returning to work is normal—and why it can sometimes trigger guilt too.

• Practical tips for self-compassion, patience, and processing big emotions.

• A teaser for tools and questions to help distinguish justified guilt from unnecessary mental overload (see show notes for links).

Key Takeaways:

• All emotions you’re feeling are normal and expected.

• There’s no “one right way” to navigate this transition.

• Allowing yourself to feel these emotions without judgment is critical for moving forward successfully.

• Support systems matter—find someone you can talk to about these big feelings.

Resources & Links:

• Free Guide: Are you feeling unnecessary guilt?

• Carrie McFarland Coaching