5 Steps to Returning to Work After Maternity Leave
You had the baby and you should be thrilled that you still have the career. Here are five steps for a smooth return:
1. Go Guilt Free
You are bringing home a paycheck and you will be fulfilled by something outside of your child – both make you a better mom. Don’t waste a moment on a useless emotion!
2. Solidify the Childcare Before the Return.
Figure out your childcare solution at least a few weeks before your return. Aim to spend a few days with your new childcare provider so she can shadow your routine while you are there. This will put you at ease when you return and set up your child for a better transition.
3. Live by A Train Schedule
Even if you don’t take one, live like you do. When colleagues and clients expect you to leave at XYZ time each day, you avoid the daily discomfort of having to respond to meetings set at a time when you had hoped to be home and you don’t have the death by a thousand cuts decisions that plague moms with erratic hours. It also has the same effect at home. When your spouse or babysitter know when to expect you home, it is better for everyone.
4. No Excessive Baby Talk
After sharing the baby photos on your first day, put them away to show that you are back to work and just as serious about your career as before. Do not regale the office with tails of each baby expression you witnessed the night before. Save baby talk for family and close friends – and if sharing with colleagues, do it outside of the office.
5. Forget About Face Time
Stop obsessing over the hours you are working and focus on being the hardest working employee while you are there. Get used to lunching at your desk and skipping the water cooler talk. Your new mantra: Work your ass off and get home!