Getting Back to Work After Maternity Leave

Returning to work after maternity leave is never the same as you imagined it. It is a huge transition and it can be both exciting and distressing (sometimes at the same time). Trying to regain some work-life balance when you are facing the demands of a new baby can be challenging and bring up a mix of emotions. It is very common to feel guilty or anxious about leaving your baby as well as being a bit relieved to be back in a familiar routine. Here are some things to consider during the return to work.

Planning Ahead

Once your first day back to work arrives it is probably going to feel like a mad rush so, it's helpful to plan as much as possible ahead of time. This includes arranging childcare and discussing flexible work options like starting back on part-time or working from home with your employer. If you are going into the office, it is also important to ensure your workplace has a room available for pumping breast milk if you are breastfeeding (and this does not mean the ladies' toilets).

New Routine

After spending nearly every moment with your baby since they were born, returning to work means adjusting to a new routine for both of you. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to get back to your pre-baby workload straight away, it will take time to get back into the groove of things. It might also take some time to find a balance that works for your family, keep an open mind and do what feels right for you.

Asking for Help

It's important to manage your own expectations and understand that you are not going to be able to do everything yourself. Remember that it's okay to ask for help and to prioritise your well-being. If you are exhausted and stressed things can feel overwhelming very quickly.

Minimising Anxiety

Staying connected with your baby while at work can help ease the anxiety of leaving your child in care. Most childcare centres have apps where they put up photos throughout the day of the children in their care, and seeing your little one having fun can really put your mind at ease. In addition to photos, calling throughout the day to hear how they are doing is perfectly reasonable and something most caretakers encourage to assist in those first few weeks.

Self-Care

Yes, self-care is the first thing to take a back seat in the hectic time when returning to work, but it is so important. Taking care of yourself is essential and this includes getting enough sleep (this is not always up to you of course), eating well and hopefully finding a little time in your week to do something you enjoy, whether that is just getting a coffee with a friend or doing a yoga class (basically anything that makes you feel like….well you).

Remember, this is something that all of the main carers in the workplace have experienced at some point, sharing your feelings with others who understand all the joys and challenges of returning to work can be a great support.