Coming Back From Maternity Leave: Finding Comfort In The Transition

In this article you will learn about:

Coming Back From Maternity Leave

Managing Emotions, Time

Self-care , self-compassion

All mamas know the bittersweet emotions of waking up to the last day of maternity leave. Even if you've had enough time off to feel rested, it can be hard to transition back into regular life after having a baby. Whether you left behind a good job or had a perfect role waiting for you upon your return, leaving your little one behind is never easy. It's important, therefore, to ensure that you plan and be realistic about what will get done.

Managing Your Emotions and Time

It's perfectly normal to feel a roller coaster of emotions when transitioning back into work. You may feel excited, anxious, and guilty all at once, and this is okay. But it's important to accept these feelings and be prepared for them rather than try to run away from them.

You can manage your time better by:

Understanding your baby's growth: Knowing your baby's developmental growth will allow you to gauge their capabilities accurately.
Setting realistic expectations for yourself: Strive to exceed but not overwhelm yourself with tasks you can't realistically achieve in the given time or situation.
Taking breaks during the day: Breaks throughout the day give your mind and body a chance to rest and rejuvenate, allowing you to stay focused on what matters most: balancing work and home responsibilities.

The Importance of Self-Care and Self-Compassion

As you transition back to work, ensure that you're taking the time to practice self-care and self-compassion. Remember, your emotions are valid, and taking the time to process and adjust is okay.

Make time for physical activities like yoga or running. Even if it's only 15 minutes a day, moving your body will help with stress release and improve your mood.
Find other things that make you feel good. Maybe it's organizing photos of your baby, reading a good book, or having coffee with friends—whatever it is, use that time to refocus and recharge.
Set aside some "me time" before returning to work full-time.

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to finding comfort and a sense of normalcy after maternity leave. But if you keep a few key things in mind, be clear on your boundaries and prioritize your mental health. Understand the changes and establish a new rhythm that works for you, your baby, and your employer.