6 Tips for a New Mom Returning to Work

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Are you a new mom returning to work? Here are six essential tips for a smooth transition to prepare for your return to work as a new mom.

6 Tips for Returning to Work After Maternity Leave

Mother holds baby to face while laughing
A mother smiling and laughing with her toddler

1. Prepare Emotionally for Separation From Your Baby

Let’s face it, returning to work after a few months (or weeks) of baby bliss can be challenging. After spending dedicated time on baby bonding, it can be hard to adjust to a work-centric routine. It could be even more complicated if you experience postpartum depression. So, the first tip is to ask yourself” “In what ways will I care for myself during this transition?”

You may need to seek support from a therapist. It might be necessary to dig deeper into your spiritual practices. Download a meditation app such as Calm, Balance, or Insight Timer. Or research small mom support groups in your area. Pro tip: Organize your baby photos into an album on your phone. When you miss your little one at work, you can readily access their photos. Motherhood brings stress and emotional upheaval; care for yourself by prioritizing your emotional needs.

2. Accommodations Are Your Friend

While some employers are more empathetic than others, it’s essential to know your needs and communicate them. Legally you can ask for things such as remote work options, a lactation space, and physical support such as an ergonomic chair. You may need a flexible schedule to accommodate doctor’s visits. Or more time off than you initially planned. Each mom has specific needs. Be confident in asking for what you need.

3. Hire Out and Enlist Support

Everyone reveres mothers’ like we have superpowers. And let’s face it, we do. That doesn’t mean we don’t need support. We absolutely do. Life is hectic when you’re working and balancing being a new mom. That’s where your community comes in, and so does paid support. If you can afford it, outsource small tasks such as meal prep services, house cleaning services, or a laundry subscription. From a practical perspective, be sure to have the names and contact information of backup support for your baby. For example, the person(s) who can pick up your baby from daycare in your absence. Mommy breaks will be necessary during this transition, so enlist the help of family and friends who can care for the baby for an hour (or more) while you do something just for yourself.

4. Be A Routine Machine

Going to work requires planning and organization. Your little one is still the center of your life, so having a routine could comfort them through the transition and provide you with ease. Plan to have a daily and weekly routine, one that is feasible. There’s no need to overdo it. A few questions to ask when developing your routine: What will help each day go smoothly? What do I need before my workday to get grounded? How can I orchestrate baby bonding before I start my day? Create a routine, test it out, find what works (and what doesn’t) and stick with it. You’ll appreciate the routine for the days when things are incredibly hectic.

A baby holding a mother's hand
A mother and baby bonding

5. Be Prepared For the Q&A Period

Returning to work means people will have tons of questions about everything. And I mean everything from your birth story to how you’re handling motherhood and, of course, about your baby. For some moms, we revel in answering these questions. For others, we may want to remain private about these matters. Either way, prepare yourself and prepare your answers. You may be okay talking about the baby but not your birth story because it was traumatic. It’s a good idea to know ahead of time what you are willing to share and come up with your standard responses.

6. Reignite Your Workspace

Whether you work from a desk or travel for work, it’s a good idea to infuse your space with something that signifies your change. You are a new mom, and your life is drastically different. Coming back to work is just another change on the list. Fill your workplace with unique things to remind you that you’re doing a good job and you’ve got this! Add your favorite quote or a memento that reminds you of your power and accomplishments, and if you’re a DIY mom, create a centerpiece that’ll make you smile every time you see it. Add a gratitude jar where you write down things for which you’re grateful. However you decide to design your space, you’ll be glad you did!

As you embark on this next phase of the journey, know that you can do it. You got this, mama!