Child Developement

Returning to Work After Maternity Leave

For a lot of women, the first day back can be overwhelming and bittersweet, as you reclaim your old work life yet worry about leaving your child. Having a child changes your life priorities and your ability to balance them. Be really clear on what is important to you and what implications this may have for your work or home life. Don’t rush into any dramatic decisions but take time to consider the options and their implications, and ensure you’re comfortable with your choice. Remember, the “right balance” is different for everyone.

Here’s what’s worked for other moms:

Start mid-week so that the weekend will come faster for you to rest/relax and get used to the transition.
“Be” there in body and spirit- be it home or work, wherever you are as if you try to think of your child at work or of your work at home, you will get frustrated and not be at your best anywhere!
Reconnect with your network- let everyone know that you are back and find out how things have been with them.
Avoid outstation travel in the first few weeks till you settle down.
Communicate- If you are working reduced time schedule ensure you communicate your days off or work from home days to your team. it helps set expectations and will make for a smoother workday for you.
Figure out Logistics of EBM-If you plan to continue breastfeeding, work out the logistics in advance of where & when you would like to express.

Give it a month- If you’re worried that you’ve made the wrong decision about your work schedule, childcare or coming back at all, don’t feel you are locked into this forever. Try to get through the first month and then reassess your options – things do have a way of working themselves out.