For some mothers, once they have their baby, this becomes their full-time job. However, other mothers wish to or need to return to work. So, how can you make this transition from new mom to working mom a manageable one?
Of course, the most ideal piece of advice you can be given is- Don’t return until you are ready. It makes sense. Being ready, both physically and mentally, is crucial. However, it may be that you have to return to work sooner for financial reasons.
If you’re moving to a new job, make the process as easy as possible. Start applying for jobs in advance of when you want to return. Have a close friend or grandparent look after the baby on interview day, so you can be focused and not covered in baby fluids! Gather together any paperwork you might need. This might be things like references or proof of identification, like a birth certificate. Be upfront and honest about the fact that you have recently had a baby. There is no point trying to hide it, as they will find out eventually! They will appreciate your honesty, also. You never know, the interviewer may have just become a parent themselves! This will give you some common ground, and an air of understanding between you.
If you are returning to your old job, you are in more of a position to negotiate how many hours you will work on your return. The chances are they will be so happy to have you back, they will help accommodate you. A very good way to help make the transition more manageable is to increase your hours over time. Instead of going straight in at five days a week, start off just working one day a week. Increase this to two days, then three, over a number of weeks. Not only will this get you back into work, but it will get you used to being away from you baby. Not to mention, it will get your baby used to being away from you!
It may take a few weeks to adjust, and that’s okay. It’s also very normal. A few wobbles are okay, but try and remain professional when at work. You don’t want your boss or colleagues to think you are too emotional or unreliable.
However, if you are struggling too much when you return to, speak to a Doctor. It could be that you are suffering from postnatal depression. This is a very real illness, and should be taken seriously by you, your loved ones and of course, your employer and colleagues. The earlier you are diagnosed, the faster you can learn how to cope, and the nearer the end will be.
Once you are back at work, be sure to make the rest of your social calendar a tad empty. Your body will need to adjust to working and being a mom, and you could be more tired than usual. Just give yourself time, and you will be balancing work and motherhood like a pro in no time!
