5 Tips to Make Going Back to Work Easier After Having a Baby
It can be challenging to return to work after taking maternity leave. You may have mixed feelings about leaving your baby behind. It can be a relief leaving the baby with a trusted nanny, or you may worry about entrusting your baby with someone else. Resuming work is a major transition, and going through what you’re experiencing is normal. Read on to learn more about how to have a smooth transition when returning to work.
Getting a Reliable Househelp
Though finding a trustworthy househelp is one of the most challenging parts of returning to work, start looking as early as possible. Consider trying out several options in advance to be at peace and comfortable leaving your baby behind. Also, prepare an emergency plan if the nanny falls sick or becomes unreliable.
Consider Working Flexible Hours
Working remotely or flexible working offers you an opportunity to spend more time with your baby. Identify a schedule that best fits you and your family and discuss it with your HR. Request your HR to resume work gradually and discuss the available back-to-work support. You can also share with them any changes in your schedule due to pumping, childcare, or any other parenting reason.
Create a Feeding Plan
Before returning to work, decide whether you plan to breastfeed exclusively, part-time, or introduce formula. Breastfeeding requires pumping at work to supply your child with milk while you’re gone. You also need to plan your meals when breastfeeding because it takes a lot out of you. Preparing meals ahead of time can help you maintain your energy level and milk supply. Have someone else feed your baby from time to time, so they get used to it, making the transition easier for them.
Organize Your Wardrobe
Check your closet for work clothes that still fit after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Try them on before resuming work to ensure that your clothes fit well. You can buy new clothes if the old ones no longer fit. Your closet should have outfits that are still appropriate for work placed in a visible place for easier access in the mornings.
Make Self-Care a Priority
Taking care of a baby and having a full-time job can lead to burnout if you don’t take care of yourself. Returning to work means adapting and developing a new routine. You may experience sleepless nights as you feed and often change the baby, and you’ll be fatigued most of the time. Don’t wait until you get some free time to recharge. Create a new routine that incorporates self-care in your busy schedule.
It’s Going to be Okay
You may feel uncertain about your career after maternity leave because becoming a parent changes your perspective. Returning to work after having a baby can be challenging, and you may feel overwhelmed. But take time and adjust to this new and exciting phase. It won’t take long for you to get back to normal.
