[Submitted Question]

When I first returned to work after my maternity leave everyone asked me about the baby and was really interested. I have been back for four months now and no one ever inquires about my daughter or wants to hear about her anymore. I realize that things are back to normal but my daughter is a huge part of my life and it is difficult not to mention her when I talk to my coworkers. How should I handle this?

Florence J., South Carolina

[WombToBloom]

That’s hard – your life has changed in a HUGE way but your co-workers’ lives are just as usual. That may explain why they don’t ask about her. They may not think about her a whole lot – and certainly not as much as you do. As far as them not wanting to hear about her and your attempts to not mention her, that sounds a bit odd. Has someone told you to stop talking about her? Have you heard comments to that effect? It sounds to me like you either alienated your co-workers by talking TOO much about your baby and now they don’t want to “go there” – or you THINK you’ve talked too much about her and are a little insecure in your work relationships.

Your daughter is obviously a huge part of your life. And there is no reason that you shouldn’t be able to talk about her in personal conversations with your co-workers. Just make sure that you’re not dominating every conversation with a new story about the baby and make sure that you’re just as interested in your co-worker’s family stories as you hope your co-workers will be in yours.

[Catmuse33]

I agree there's no reason not to mention your daughter--in moderation. Can you connect with coworkers who also have young families? That may make it easier. Do you ask about your coworkers children all the time? I would imagine not. It's human nature to talk about 'the latest news' ... Previously, your daughter-- and then move on. That doesn't mean they don't want to hear stories you may have to share, as long as it's a give and take conversation.

I don't know how long ago you asked the question but my daughter us seven months now too.

[iambarefoot]

I was going to recommend the same thing, find some other young moms. I think most are eager to share and listen.

Good luck!

[terily]

the best way to have people ask about your life, is to first ask about theirs! if it's someone you know better, strike up a convo, ask about THEIR family, and it will naturally lead to yours. then, as you get to a certain level of sharing, they'll likely ask more often.

congrats on your new daughter, it's such a wonderful life change!

[Melissa]

It is hard to be away from your baby and I understand your desire to talk about her! Do you have pictures out on your desk? I don't know what type of environment you work in but perhaps there is a mom (of any age) that might be able to listen to you talk about your daughter at lunch or something. People may not be asking simply because they are caught up in their own "stuff". Remind them by bringing her up (in moderation as the others suggested)

[tariq456]

Talk to some close friends near you . May be you feel comfort by doing this because you want to talk about her .