Many situations result in people having long periods off work, such as a career break, long-term sickness, a holiday or maternity leave. Sometimes people can be off work for a year or more, so returning can be one of the most apprehensive times they can go through.
Going back to work after having children has added disadvantages for new mums; hormones and emotions. In addition, many women suffer from postnatal depression and feeling apprehensive about returning to work has a detrimental effect on them. You may dread whether you can remember how to do your job or not, and whether you will fit back in again with your team and company’s structure. You may also worry about how your baby is getting on at nursery or in the childminder’s care. Then there is the ‘mum guilt’ which is worrying whether you’ve done the right thing by sending your baby to childcare so you can return to working life.
There are lots of things new mums can do to help prepare themselves for returning to work. Likewise, there are also ways that employers can support you to settle back in. Looking after the wellbeing of a returning parent is an enormous benefit for any company.
Communication
Maternity leave is time to spend with your new baby, getting to know their routine and working out how to develop your lifestyle with a new little one in your home. Becoming a parent is like taking on a new role.
The job that you performed beforehand may or may not have been important to you. Years ago, many women gave up work once they had a family. Nowadays, things have changed dramatically due to the economy. One in five parents returns to full-time positions after having a baby, usually to earn money because of the high cost of living.
The right sort and frequency of communication between you and your employer can be quite an advantage during maternity leave. It can also benefit you in the later stages as you prepare to return to work.
Remaining connected with your colleagues during maternity leave through social get-togethers (with and without the baby) can prevent isolation and continue to make you feel valued within the team. Such invitations can also help later with returning to work as they allow you to be updated with what’s happening. However, be mindful of the topics of conversation. It’s best to avoid discussing work projects, so direct the conversation differently by talking about matters outside of work.
Fail to prepare; prepare to fail!
Some parents will be itching to return to work, and some will be less keen. Visiting your place of work before your return date can make it more manageable for everyone involved, including you if you’re feeling apprehensive.
Your practical preparation can start a couple of weeks before you’re due to return by changing your routine. Setting the alarm, getting up and dressed ready for work and ensuring jobs are done the night before (such as making packed lunches, getting the bag packed for childcare or getting your clothes or uniform ready) is the best way to start. Doing this can also save time and stress the following day.
When the date of return arrives
When returning to work, it is entirely natural to feel anxious. Every parent goes through this, whether they’ve had one child or several. We all know that the longer you’re away from work, the harder it is to return, so don’t put pressure on yourself.
Some employers will offer a phased return to work or a temporary reduction in hours which can help. In addition, you may be able to change your working hours to fit in with your altered responsibilities. I advise checking with your employers where they stand on flexible working before finishing work for maternity leave so you have plenty of time to consider your options.
Many new mums find the transition back to work challenging. If you’ve tried it but are struggling to manage, here are some suggestions for you:
- Consider your aspirations, whether you want to be more hands-on with parenting or perhaps want to take this opportunity to have a complete career change. Take time to yourself and talk your options over with your family before deciding what to do
- If your job isn’t working for you anymore, reach out for support from your employer and see if there is a way you could take a career break or change or reduce your role. Some larger companies may have other vacancies that you could move into that work better for you and your work-life balance. Many mums change their jobs within the company they work for so they can work fewer hours. Part-time work is becoming increasingly common for parents. With remote working now more popular, some companies are more flexible with your work hours so that everything can fit in
Emotions
Many people know that returning to work after having children is an emotional rollercoaster for all the family. It’s easier said than done but try to have some time to yourself. It is good for your mental health and can help you evaluate your purpose in life, as well as improve your performance at work. Whether you’ve always thrived in your career or not, things have now changed, and your emotions will be high. That’s fine and expected!
In conclusion…
Being level-headed and ensuring a balance between family and work is one of the most important aspects of being a parent. Having the structure and ability to separate these things can make a truly amazing difference in your life, for you and the people around you. So, wherever your journey takes you, don’t be afraid to ask for support from your employer. If you don’t ask, you don’t get!