Returning to work after having a baby is challenging for new mothers. Everything in a mother’s life changes, from daily routines to new responsibilities of parenthood. All these factors could change the way you see yourself as an adult and an employee.
On top of the sleep deprivation, and a tiny human relying on you for everything, there is the physical and emotional strain of being a working mom. You may feel overwhelmed and unprepared to leave your child, or even guilty, however, there is no shame in returning to work or even recruiting nanny services as an aid.
In the complete guide for mothers returning to work, there are a few tips, resources and guidelines to help you understand your role as a parent and working mom, the role of a nanny as help, and factors that will help you with the transitioning.
Though returning to work comes with many challenges, there are just as many solutions, and you can get through it with the right guidance.
Emotions and Challenges Mothers Face when Returning to Work
The journey back to the workplace after maternity leave can be a big change for many mothers, involving many emotions. Often mothers feel torn between leaving their child with a nanny service, and even guilty for going back to work. Whether you have to go back to work for financial reasons, or you just want to follow your career, there is absolutely no reason for feeling guilty.
Many mothers struggle to get back into a professional routine after a long maternity break. They may question their ability or dedication. However, you will find that with a bit of patience, you can quickly get back into the game.
Yes, having to juggle home responsibilities, a newborn and work responsibilities is quite challenging, however, is a balancing act that is achievable.
By acknowledging and addressing these feelings and challenges, you can easily survive at home and eventually thrive in your career.
Guidelines for Mothers Returning to Work
New mums have all the career advice and tools at their disposal to get back to work. Before you start this new chapter, bring your inner strength, patience, determination, and self-confidence with you. Ask for help when you need it and trust yourself.
The following guidelines will help you manage your home responsibilities and transition back into your career:
Review Your Career Goals
After maternity leave is a good time to review your career goals and options. Is your old position and work schedule still feasible for you? Would you like to follow a new career path?
Being a mother has an impact on who you are and your capabilities as a career woman, thus you may need to consider a few changes in your schedule or career path. You could easily look at working part-time rather than full-time, or even discussing a few changes in your work responsibilities with your employer. Keep in mind that you should seek what will bring you joy and contentment in your career.
Often women with children or newborns also consider a remote job opportunity where they can work from home. Though it comes with its own set of challenges, working from home is a much more flexible option. Working from home allows you the opportunity to be present for your child while still being productive. This is an option that you could discuss with your employer, or consider as a completely new career goal.
Do Not Be Hard On Yourself
Returning to work is a huge change, and you have plenty on your plate as a new mother. Thus, be kind to yourself and take things slowly. It is normal to have mixed feelings and you may require some time to settle back into your old position at work. Make sure that you have realistic expectations, and celebrate every small victory, whether at home or work. It is a journey that will take time and plenty of effort.
Reset Your Expectations
the expectations that you may have had before becoming a mother, whether for work or at home will not be the same. It is perfectly fine to adjust your expectations and goals to a more manageable state. The process is a learning journey that requires flexibility and changes.
Adjust Your Schedule
It is vital to have an optimal daily schedule for your home responsibilities and work. You must work out and plan how you will manage your work and personal life. Often the role of a nanny comes in handy to help you with childcare options, while you concentrate on work.
Try to make a list and create a daily routine where you can easily manage your work and home commitments while having enough quality time to spend with your child. Having an updated schedule helps you eliminate stress and gives you more control; over your daily routines.
Communicate with Your Colleagues and Employer
It is vital to communicate with your manager and colleagues about your current situation. Communicate your feelings, expectations and needs with your employer to come to an agreement that is acceptable for both.
Also, set boundaries with your team and colleagues and communicate your needs and limits to them so that everyone is on the same page.
Manage expectations by talking about your availability, preferred hours and any flexibility options that you need. This practice will create a supportive work environment and reduce misunderstandings.
Request Flexibility from Your Employer
Negotiating flexible working with your employer will help you balance work and family life. Consider talking about your needs for flexibility and presenting a clear plan and work schedule to your employer. Point out the benefits of a flexible working schedule for both yourself and your employer.
Try to explain how it will increase your productivity and job satisfaction as well as reduce turnover. Also, prepare yourself that your employer may not agree and have different expectations, in which case you will need to come to a suitable agreement.
Manage Your Time Wisely
Manage your time wisely to balance work and family life. It is important to prioritize your time, and even delegate a few duties to colleagues at work and family or a nanny at home. Tools such as calendars and planners are ideal for helping you stay on top of things.
It is always a good idea to allocate specific times for work and family activities so that you give attention to both. Do not forget that you also need a break now and again, and try to avoid too much multitasking. This will help to increase your productivity and reduce stress.
Use Your Support Network
A support network is gold when you go back to work. At home, you could use family, friends or even the help of childcare, such as a nanny service company, to help with household duties and childcare. At work, you can rely on colleagues, mentors or support groups to help you manage daily tasks. Either way, having a network of trusted individuals will make your transition much smoother and less stressful.
Invest in Childcare
You could always consider hiring a nanny or child care service or even placing your child in daycare. The role of a nanny is multi-faceted and essential in today’s busy world, supporting families as they juggle work and home life. Nannies care for children but also contribute to their development through activities, educational play and nurturing guidance.
They become part of the family dynamic, offering stability and continuity that can be especially helpful during times of transition, like when parents go back to work after having a baby. A good nanny will adapt to the unique needs of each family, so children feel safe and loved while parents manage their work responsibilities.
This will reduce some of the stress of balancing work and family life, for example, so parents can focus on their careers knowing their children are in expert hands.
Spend Quality Time with Your Child and Family
Allocate adequate time where you can focus solely on your family and child. Make the time you spend with your child meaningful and deliberate. Even if your work is demanding, make an effort to create special moments that will strengthen your bond.
Simple things like reading a book together, playing a game or having a meal can make a huge difference. Being present and engaged in these moments is more important than the amount of time you spend in them.
A Few Final Words
Going back to work after spending time at home with a newborn is an experience like no other. The transition is full of changes. It is vital to deal with all involved emotions and expectations appropriately and to see yourself as a multi-faceted adult who can be a successful mother and career woman.
Planning and organizing your work and home schedules is crucial to managing your time efficiently. This will help increase productivity at work while allowing you to enjoy special quality time at home with your family and child.