The time you can spend during maternity leave depends on how pregnancy goes, labor, and the condition of both mother and child. Everything also depends on the legislation of a country, on the policy of a company where you work. One way or another, if you are planning to have a baby, you really need to study this matter and know what to expect when going back to work after maternity leave.
Best Tips for Going Back to Work After Maternity Leave
How can you prepare for these changes, and what can you do to make them go as smoothly as possible?
While you away from work, you will fall a little behind. Unless someone was doing your job while you were on maternity leave, you might have a stack of work waiting on you. Things change, and surely, you will have a short adaptation period. Therefore, when going back to work after maternity leave take time to sit down with your employer and go over all points that concern you. It will help you get some directions regarding what you should do next. Who knows, maybe you will see things from a new angle and decide to change your workplace altogether.
“Restart” your brain. With new responsibilities, it is important to keep yourself on track when it comes to working. To do this, read the news, follow trends, and everything that concerns your field of occupation.
Preparations need to be made when going back to work after maternity leave. Talk to your relatives and family, so that if you need their help, they will be there for you. Besides, it is important to talk to your child and explain that “mommy needs to work.” Make arrangements concerning kindergarten or a babysitter if you need them. Also, it would be good to shift your schedule a little so that you have enough time for everything you need to handle. Remember that you have to give as much attention as possible to your baby, so it does not feel abandoned.
(Time, when you normally wake up + 30min) x2. After doing all the calculations, you will see that you have to wake up earlier than you used to. It will provide you with all the time that you need to get ready for work, prepare your kid for kindergarten, and take care of all the chores you have. You will even have a few minutes for some “minor troubles” that might occur on your way out.
Take one step at a time. Getting back to work usually feels refreshing and exciting, as if it was the first day at your workplace. You might even feel as if you could work wonders but don’t. Take things slowly when going back to work after maternity leave; remember that it is a period when both you and your family are going through changes. It is vital for the adaptation period to go smoothly for everyone because it can build a solid foundation for the future. Work, but spend as much time as you can at home with the baby, do things that you like and things that make you happy, but remember that your family is your priority.
Do not be afraid to ask for help. The human brain tends to forget things and it's normal when going back to work after maternity leave. Therefore it is okay if some things slip your mind. It is better to ask for help and do things right, rather than “keep your dignity” and do things wrong. Besides, the more questions you ask, the better you will be able to do your job properly. Do not worry; this period will not last forever.
Do not let your fear take control. You are not a novice; you just missed out on some things; that is all it is! Know that if you were able to handle your job before going on maternity leave, then you are 100% capable of doing it now.
Get used to talking about something else rather than about babies. Maybe becoming a mother was your dream and the most exciting thing for you, but not everyone is as excited as you are. When going back to work after maternity leave try talking about something else rather than about sleepless nights that your baby gives you, or about the number of teeth it already has.
Get ready to travel with a baby, read my tips on What to Pack in a Diaper Bag? Also, I have Tips on How to Make Money While on Maternity Leave
Get your baby some cute bodysuits and bibs!
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