Returning to Work After Having a Baby: The Reality of Balancing Career and Motherhood
Written by Lauren Collinson & Kenzie Benali
Reading time: 5 minutes
Kenzie didn’t take much time away from the bright lights and fast pace life of sports broadcasting, just one week after giving birth, she was back at it - this time with an extra title: mummy to Honey. We asked Kenzie if she would be happy to chat about the transition from nappies to stadium arenas, the juggle of career and motherhood, and what it’s really like to return to a high-profile job after becoming a parent.
First things first - how did it feel returning to work for the first time after having Honey?
I really didn’t take much time off at all, so being at work still felt incredibly normal. I stopped working two days prior to having Honey and then a week later I had my first job back since becoming a mum. I missed her so much, but it was a local job and I was only away for a few hours. It felt good to be doing my thing but of course I couldn’t wait to get back for precious snuggles!
What was the biggest shock to the system when you returned?
There wasn’t anything that particularly shocked me as such but getting out the door is a whole different ball game with a baby. I just had to become so much more organised with everything, I’d wake up super early so that I could shower and get myself ready before Honey got up.
How are you managing the balance between work and being a new mother?
To be perfectly honest, I think I’m still trying to figure out the balance. It’s so hard to find that sweet spot. Being a mum will always be the most important part of my life but I also care so deeply for my career that I have worked so hard for. I’m learning to be kinder to myself and to accept that I can’t give my all, at the same time, to everything. I just try to focus on being all in with whatever I’m doing.
What’s harder – night feeds or live broadcasting?
Live broadcasting is no walk in the park but there’s definitely nothing that can prepare you for the sleep deprivation in those early days. That being said, there’s something really beautiful about those gorgeous newborn cuddles in the middle of the night. It goes way too fast and everyone says these are the days they wish they could come back to, so I always tried to really soak it in and enjoy the moment. Plus we have been super blessed from day one with a fab sleeper!!
What does a typical day look like for you now – from baby to broadcast?
I’m a freelance broadcaster so no day ever really looks the same for me. I work all over the country on different sports with different people. Wherever I’m working, if it’s physically possible to get there and back in a day, I always will. Cuddles before my girl goes to bed after a long working day is always the best welcome home!
Has motherhood changed how you approach your job?
Without a doubt. There are so many wonderful things that come with being a parent but one of the best things is that it gives you such a brilliant perspective. You really come to realise that so much of what used to be important to you no longer is. I feel much more relaxed and don’t really stress over the little things!!
Let’s talk guilt – did you feel it? How do you deal with that inner voice that says you should be doing more of everything?
100% yes! I can be my own worst enemy at times in that I hold myself to impossible standards. Sometimes I can be at work and I feel an overwhelming sense of guilt that I’m not at home with Honey but on the flip side I’ve experienced it where I’m at home and I’d be anxious that I wasn’t working. I realised that if I continued to think that way, I’d lead a pretty stressful life. I try to just be present in whatever I’m doing, whether that’s working or mummying.
What would you say to other women in media or high-pressure jobs thinking about starting a family?
Not knowing when the right time to have a family because you’re anxious about your career is so common, I absolutely felt it and having now spoken to so many other women in similar situations I know they have too. But all I would say is that if you do feel that it is the right time for you to start thinking about a family, that is number one. Work is so important but family first always. Having Honey will always be the greatest part of my life and whilst I love my job and I’m still incredibly passionate about it and driven to achieve more goals in my career, nothing will give me the joy and pride that Honey brings. I also think it’s really important to remember that whilst of course it’s hard to find the balance that works for you between work and family life, it really is possible to do both!
Any hacks or tips that helped you get back into the swing of things?
Our family were just so pivotal, and still are, in juggling parenthood and work. I know not everyone is fortunate enough to have their village nearby, but I think it’s just so important to accept help when it’s offered to you. Whether it’s a friend offering to bring round a home cooked meal or your parents offering to take the baby for a walk whilst you get bits done or take some time for yourself, it really helps manage things. In the very early days I remember my parents coming round, my dad helped to clean the house and my mum had Honey whilst Lewis and I banked an extra hour of sleep! Life savers!
If you could go back and give yourself one piece of advice before you became a parent, what would it be?
Don’t be so hard on yourself all the time, prioritise self-care and find the time to do things for you too!
What are you most excited about now – either at work or at home?
Watching Honey grow is truly the best thing in the world and that brings me the most joy!
What’s next for you – any big goals, projects, or personal dreams you’re chasing now?
I have a few things written down on my vision board with regard to my career that I’d like to achieve this year. I’m super ambitious so will be working my socks off to get to where I’d like to be.
If you’re a new mum wondering if you can go back to work and still be great at it - you can. You might be a little sleep-deprived, maybe even a little different. But different doesn’t mean lesser. It means you’re growing - and that’s always powerful.
Instagram: @kenziebenali
Website: www.kenziebenali.co.uk
