Back to Work: A Survival Guide for Mums Returning to the Workplace

Returning to work after maternity leave can feel like navigating uncharted waters. The mix of excitement, anxiety, and guilt is completely normal – but with proper planning and support, you can make this transition smoother than you might expect.

Before You Step Back Into the Office

The key to a successful return starts well before your first day back. Stay connected with your workplace during your leave – even if it's just the occasional coffee catch-up with colleagues or scanning those important team emails. It helps keep you in the loop and makes that first day feel less daunting.

Consider doing a few 'practice runs' of your new routine. Test your commute during rush hour with baby in tow, try out your childcare arrangements, and gradually adjust your daily schedule. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later for this preparation!

Setting Up Your Support System

Reliable childcare is your golden ticket to peace of mind at work. Start researching and visiting providers early – and don't forget to arrange backup care for those inevitable sick days. A trial run with your chosen childcare provider can help iron out any potential hiccups before you're actually due back.

Building a strong support network is crucial. Connect with other working parents in your organisation – they're a goldmine of practical advice and emotional support. Many companies now have parent networks or mentoring programmes; don't hesitate to get involved.

The Practical Bits

Let's talk wardrobe. Your pre-baby work clothes might not feel quite right yet, and that's perfectly fine. Invest in a few key pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable. If you're still breastfeeding, look for nursing-friendly options that don't scream "I'm wearing a nursing top!"

Speaking of breastfeeding, if you're planning to express at work, familiarise yourself with your workplace facilities and policies. Schedule regular pumping breaks in your calendar and consider them as non-negotiable as any other important meeting.

Making It Work

Have an honest conversation with your manager about your return. Discuss flexible working options, any changes to your role, and set clear expectations about your availability. Remember, you're not asking for special treatment – you're proposing a way of working that benefits everyone.

Time management becomes your superpower. Prioritise ruthlessly, delegate when possible, and embrace technology that helps streamline your workflow. And those boundaries between work and home life? Set them early and stick to them.

The Financial Picture

Take time to review your new financial situation. Factor in childcare costs, investigate tax credits, and check whether your employer offers childcare vouchers or salary sacrifice schemes. A clear understanding of your finances can help reduce stress during this transition.

Managing the Emotional Journey

It's completely normal to experience a rollercoaster of emotions. You might feel guilty about leaving your little one, anxious about juggling responsibilities, or worried about proving yourself at work again. These feelings don't make you any less capable – they make you human.

Keep communication channels open with everyone involved – your partner, employer, and childcare provider. Regular check-ins help ensure everyone's on the same page and can adapt as needed.

Remember, returning to work isn't about picking up exactly where you left off. You're not the same person you were before having a baby – you're stronger, more efficient, and probably better at prioritising than ever before. Give yourself time to find your new normal, and don't be afraid to adjust your approach as you go along.

This isn't just about surviving the return to work – it's about thriving in your new role as a working parent. Take it one day at a time, celebrate the small wins, and remember: you've got this.

Want to learn more? Litmus helps people and teams feel in their element and communicate in a way that’s anything but neutral. 

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