The transition between maternity leave and returning to work can be challenging. You have been out of your workflow for a while and are coming back with new priorities. Perspectives have shifted and the way you used to work might not be best for you now. You can overcome this life adjustment with the right plan. However, you may have some questions about how to go about this. This article will cover six tips for helping you return to work after maternity leave.
1. Returning to Work Mid-Week
When you plan to start going back to work, try to schedule your first day in the middle of the week. Doing so will initially minimize the time away from your baby and make your first week back a short one to help ease you into everything again. It is a simple tactic but will help make those first days more manageable.
2. Get Into a Routine and Practice It
If you haven’t already, try to get into a routine you can maintain every morning. Experts know babies thrive on patterns to give them a sense of security and stability. When you and your family get into a regular rhythm, it helps keep your days organized and predictable.
The routine doesn’t have to be anything extreme. You can keep it simple, like cuddling your baby during feeding first thing in the morning and then passing him off to Dad so you can shower. Also, remember things may start rocky, but practice makes perfect and life happens, so take it easy while perfecting your schedule.
3. Ask for Flexibility
If a full-time schedule does not seem doable for you, talk to your boss about other options before you return. Is it possible to switch to more flexible hours, change to working from home, or even start off working part-time? Have an idea of what is desirable for you so your boss knows you’re looking for an arrangement to succeed in your new life.
4. Reach Out for Support
Returning to work and your professional life will be a process, but support networks can help you realize you’re not alone in this journey. Try confiding in family members, online support communities, or co-workers who have gone through the same process. They may have valuable advice to offer.
5. Be Gentle With Yourself
Your life has dramatically changed, so being kind to yourself is vital to remember. You will be tired and frustrated, but that doesn’t mean you will be forever. It is an emotional time, so don’t ignore your feelings and remember this obstacle will pass.
Many emotions can occur during this time, so you should expect them and allow yourself to have the feelings you do. You or your child may experience separation anxiety from being away or you may feel guilt from working more. It is essential to value your own needs and make the best decisions for you and your baby. When you care for yourself, you also care for your new family.
6. Take Breaks
Taking breaks during the work day is always important, but even more now that you are a mom. Your sleep schedule is likely thrown off, and childbirth takes a serious physical toll. Don’t be ashamed to take numerous breaks during the day.
If you work from home, take a power nap at lunch if you’re feeling drowsy. In the office, step away from your desk to take a walk or get some fresh air. Don’t put pressure on yourself to be the perfect, productive employee you might have been before.
Enjoy the Moments You Have
Although work will shorten your time with your baby throughout the day, enjoy the time you do have. Allow yourself to feel a sense of pride from doing work you love and knowing your baby is fine when you’re apart. Don’t feel guilty about going back to work as a mom. Everyone has different reasons for choosing to work or stay home. Whatever your reasons may be, try staying present and enjoy your time split between motherhood and work life.
If you are looking for at home childcare, reach out to Boston Baby Nurse & Nanny to help you find the perfect match. Their award winning nanny placement team will connect your family with a warm, responsible, and trustworthy caregiver.
About The Author
Cora Gold is a mother and writer who aims to connect with other moms through her experiences with navigating motherhood. Cora is the Editor-in-Chief of Revivalist magazine and writes for sites including For Every Mom, MommyBites and Playground Professionals. When she’s not writing about style and beauty for her magazine, Revivalist, she loves to share her experience with family life. Follow Cora on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
