Getting Back to Work Like a Boss Mama

Are you on the last leg of your maternity leave?

You’re probably savouring every moment of being home with your baby and dreading that first day back.

To top that off, functioning on a couple of hours of sleep is never easy.

We hear you.

We feel your plight.

Going back to work after having a baby is a major life change and we want to help you make this transition as smoothly as possible.

Here are 20 tips by Greendigo to help you get back into the swing of things.

1. Embrace mixed emotions: Whether you’re anxious, overwhelmed or even excited to get back to work, please know that every feeling is valid.
2. Build a strong support system: Leaving your baby for the first time is one of the hardest things you will ever do. Lean on your family and friends at this time.
3. Reach out to fellow working moms: Communicate with other working moms to discuss the highs and lows of parenting whilst working.
4. Consider going back to work in stages: Start by going in twice a week and gradually work your way to a full 5 days.
5. Talk to your boss about flexible working options: Consider work-from-home options.
6. Redefine your role: Understand how your role may have changed since you’ve been away.
7. Understand your rights: Make sure you’re aware of your maternity benefits, from creche facilities to healthcare incentives.
8. Make expectations clear: Spell out exactly what you can and can’t do to avoid any kind of ambiguity.
9. Set boundaries with your team: Don’t be afraid to say no with respect to working extra hours or compensating for someone else.
10. Learn the art of delegation: Accept that you cannot do everything yourself and allow others to pick up the slack.
11. Prioritise important tasks: Tick off the most urgent tasks and those that require your undivided attention.
12. Engage with your workmates: Nurture your friendships at work, so that you have a dual support system.
13. Have faith in your childcare: Trust that your baby is being well looked after and that you have appointed the best person for the job.
14. Download a baby monitor app: Keep an eye on your little one through your smartphone.
15. Plan your nursing schedule: Pump beforehand and ensure that your baby’s feeds for the day are accounted for.
16. Be present when you’re at home: Don’t bring work back home with you, rather focus on the moment.
17. Take the shortest possible commute: Optimise your transportation, so that you have more time at home.
18. Invest in comfortable workwear: Your outfits should reflect your new body and help you feel confident.
19. Plan a spa evening: Pamper yourself with a little TLC in the form of a massage or manicure.
20. Shed the mom guilt: In case no one has reminded you of this, you can have a career and a family both.

Let time work its magic and help you get used to this new normal.

Good luck, you’ve got this.