It’s undeniable, having a baby is a life changing event! There are a host of changes to consider, and how your working life and career may change, is likely to be one of them.
The statistics show us that now, more than ever, mothers are returning to the work place after having a baby. According to an article from The Fawcett Society and Total Jobs “data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that in 2021, 76% of mothers with dependent children were employed. This is a 15% increase over the past two decades, and the highest level on record”.
Returning to work is a big change – it can be daunting leaving your baby for perhaps the first time and entering back into the working world. Here are some tips that can help with the adjustment period.
• Your feelings about returning to work are valid whether they are positive or negative. You may be sad that this period is over, or you may be happy that you get to return to your career. Accept how you are feeling but try not to dwell on any negative emotions for too long.
• Set realistic expectations for yourself! A lot has changed for you in the last few months, and it is important to acknowledge this. Take each day as it comes and understand that some days may run smoother than others. If you are having concerns around this, it is a good idea to reach out to your human resources department or line manager to discuss gradual return to duties and how this may work best for you.
...In 2021, 76% of mothers with dependent children were employed...
• Let go of ‘Mum Guilt’. Many mothers report allowing this guilty feeling to take over without even realising it at times. It is OK that you have gone back to work, and you do not need to feel guilty for prioritising yourself, your finances and your family. A good way to overcome these feelings is to plan fun days out on the days you are not working, or at the weekends, and as much as possible be fully present in the moment with your children during these periods.
• Build a support system. Make contact with any other working mums in your place of work, friends who may have recently returned to work also, family members in a similar position or turn to social media and local ‘mum groups’ for support. Although everyone’s journey looks different you are not alone and will often find many other working mothers are feeling the same way you are or may have already overcome certain hurdles and can offer you practical tips.
• Make time to prioritise yourself. It is very easy to get lost in the chaos that often is being a working mum and this can quickly lead to burnout. Try to take time for yourself when you can as you also deserve it.
• Try to carve out a routine if possible. You will often find this will help you manage your time and feel like you are able to get it all done as much as possible. Of course, this needs to be flexible, so do not get too disheartened if you’re not able to follow the routine one day.
• Speak with your employer and be open. Often employers will be happy to help with the adjustment to returning to work. If you are struggling, reach out. Understandably, your priorities will have changed since having a baby even if it is not your first so allow yourself some room to adjust. Flexible working arrangements are often possible so do not be afraid to ask if there are different options for you to help manage your schedule.
Being a working parent comes with lots of challenges and there unfortunately is no ‘one size fits all’ process for managing it. Everyone’s work/life balance and routine will look different, but communication is key to ensure you get the best possible solution both at work and for you and your family.
