Going Back to Work After Baby

Whether you’re going back to a job/career you love, returning for the love of money, or to your own business, returning back to work after baby can be one of the most difficult transitions a woman can make. I know for me, not only was I very torn at leaving my child with a caregiver for the first time, but I was also worried about how I would manage my time, and be at my best both for my child and my work, and my husband.

I hate to say that there are no quick fixes to make the ‘back-to-work’ time easier for moms. But, there are some things you can do to set yourself up for success:

1.       Establish expectations: think about the distribution of shared household duties between you and your spouse? For the last however many months, you’ve been the keeper of baby, hearth and home, but now you will be gone at least as much as he / she is. If needed, actually write down the tasks that need to be accomplished and then share them out. And let’s be clear, men, hanging with your own child is not babysitting. 

2.       Talk to your Boss/Leader: (if you work for someone else) In today’s world, everyone is balancing multiple priorities. Find out what your employer’s attitudes are towards flexible work arrangements, such as working from home or working more hours each day to take a 5^th day off. Many employers are understanding of your needs and recognize a happy employee makes for a productive workplace. If you are self-employed, try to set boundaries about your work hours, and try to stick to them.  Treat your ‘home office’ like an office, and leave at the end of the day.

3.       Make Childcare arrangements that work for you: For me, a live-in nanny was the best choice, both logistically and financially. For others, home-based or institutional daycares are the solution. Some parents are lucky enough to have free childcare in the way of in-laws. Do your research, and look at the pros and cons before deciding. Then, you’ll feel secure that your baby is well-cared for when you’re not there. 

4.       Ask for Help: The 80s are over and everyone knows that the concept of Supermom is unattainable. Look for support anywhere you can find it: mother, mother-in-law, friends, and neighbours. 

5.       Plan Ahead: If you tend to be disorganized like me, plan your chores, so that you leave time to enjoy your family. For example, my laundry days were Monday and Thursday, and sheets were Wednesdays. I grocery shopped on Sundays, and cooked some food for the week on Sunday evening. Make sure to set aside time in that schedule for yourself, such as a bi-weekly manicure or the gym.

Most importantly, relax! There is no white picket fence ideal anymore. Your child will love you even if you aren’t the one to feed them lunch. The world won’t end if there’s a load of laundry sitting for one more day. And, sometimes tomato soup and grilled cheese is the perfect dinner!