Going Back to Work After Maternity Leave

Just as you’re getting used to spending all of your time with your little angel and wearing comfortable clothes, the day of your return to your pre-maternity duties gets closer.

Image credit: Stuart Miles | FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Your return may cause contradictory emotions. You may be excited to come back to your old habits. On the other hand, there is a feeling of guilt and discomfort for spending so much time away from your baby.

Nevertheless, the day is definitely on its way, so you should do everything in your power to await it with confidence and serenity.

The checklist

To head for work with a peaceful mind, you must make a checklist of everything you need to do. The first on your list should be finding proper childcare. Whether you’ll leave your baby to its grandparents, with a babysitter, or in a daycare, it would be good to have a “trial run” to see how the baby reacts to them.

Be sure to always have a packing list of the baby necessities (bottles, diapers, and so on) because you can get overwhelmed with obligations that it would be normal to forget. If you plan to continue breastfeeding, you can pump and freeze the milk before going back to work.

Also, you can take the breast pump to work with you, and arrange pumping schedule with your boss.

The stylist

Surely, after being separated from your baby, one of the most stressful things about going back to your job is finding the outfit in which you’ll feel as comfortable as you were at home but still look work-appropriate and stylish.

Your pre-maternity clothes probably won’t fit, which is completely normal. Under no circumstances should you wear your maternity clothes. If there really aren’t any alternatives left in your closet, the next best choice is to go shopping.

This period is a true fashion limbo; you’re not pregnant anymore, but you’re likely not back to your old weight yet. So choose your clothes carefully.

Tunics and leggings will be your best friends. Leggings are comfortable, and tunics can hide your stomach while revealing some skin on your neck and shoulders. Floral dresses are true magicians for concealing the tummy fat because floral pattern provides the perfect distraction.

Use your advantages. All fresh moms have great décolletage. So flaunt your assets in wrap shirts that are great for hiding your belly.

The “it’s ok“ list

Make your own “it’s ok” list. Write down the reasons you’re going back to work and why that decision doesn’t make you a bad mother. Have a reminder that your kid will be all right, and that everything is under control. Have your childcare on speed dial.

As for the job itself, it’s okay if you can’t get the hang of it right away, like you always used to. Maybe you need time to get back on track.