Returning to Work after Maternity Leave

Returning to work after maternity leave can be daunting for even the most career-driven woman.  You may find yourself struggling with emotional issues ranging from guilt at leaving your baby to relief at being back at work. 

To make your transition back to work as smooth as possible there are a number of things you can do:

Before returning to work

• If you do not have a return date sorted, this is the first thing you need to look at doing.  Having a set day to go back will give you time to plan and get used to the idea. 

• Secondly, find dependable childcare.  Do your research, taking your time to find a place and a system that will suit both you and your baby.  When you have found a place you can comfortably and confidently leave your baby, this will ease your mind considerably.  

• Next, have a talk with you boss; discuss your schedule and any potential flexibility, eg. Would it be possible for you to work from home on occasion?  What happens if your baby cannot go into childcare for whatever reason?  Make sure you understand exactly what is expected of you on your return.

Now you are back at work

• Being both a new mum and a career woman, you will need to be super organised.  Manage your time efficiently and soon you should develop a routine that will essentially run itself.

• Don’t expect that things will slip back into the way they used to be when you were at work.  Accept that you will feel sad and guilty at times for leaving your baby.  Talk to your partner or other women in the same situation as you.  If these feelings become overwhelming it may pay to pop-in to see your doctor.  Staying connected with your baby should help with these feelings, make time throughout your day to call and check in on your baby.

• Do not try to do everything yourself.  Accept help from your partner, family members and friends.  This will allow you to take some time out for yourself.  By taking this time to de-stress, you will be able to enjoy your baby more when you spend time together. 

• Unfortunately, fatigue comes with the territory of being a new parent.  Get as much rest as you possibly can, try to get to bed earlier at least one night a week and set aside some time on the weekend to sleep when your baby sleeps.

There will be times when you do not feel like going to work, you may be dead tired or your baby could be especially fussy or clingy.  Remind yourself that eventually he or she will become used to your schedule and settle into a routine, and you too will get used to handling these ups and downs.

For advice on planning and managing career issues and transitions, contact anne@careeranalysts.co.nz or +64 9 356 9758. Visit www.careeranalysts.co.nz for a comprehensive range of online tools and services that can help you to get your career sorted.