Most mums we know start the dreaded return-to-work countdown fairly soon after giving birth. The lengthy maternity leave we dreamed of suddenly seems to be speeding by. Which naturally brings on the stress. So if you’re heading into countdown mode, it’s helpful to get some logistics sorted out in advance. After all, you’ll need all the extra mental and physical energy you can get!
Preparing for Childcare
Assuming you have childcare in place already, start with part-time days a few days before you return to work. Your child will need to adjust to the new situation, and gradual entry will make things easier for everyone. Other preparations include compiling a list of emergency information/numbers, getting your little one used to taking a bottle, preparing a packing list for daycare, and conducting a trial run. You’ll be amazed how long it takes to get you and the munchkin up, dressed, fed and off to daycare!
Have the “Sick” Discussion
Sooner or later, your child (or childcare provider) will get sick. So who’s staying home from work to look after the sick kid? The months of maternity leave often means mum is the default. But it will be better for your health, and for your relationship, if you and your partner discuss sick days ahead of time. Sorting it out at 4 am, with a vomiting child in your arms, is not ideal.
Train Your Boss and Coworkers to the New Reality
Falling into the “proving yourself” mode can easily happen when returning to work post mat leave. But it’s not sustainable, and definitely not in your best interests, or those of your family. Try to avoid work promises that require you to stay late, work from home, or skip lunch. It can be a slippery slope. And make sure your coworkers know to knock first on a closed door (or put up a “Do not disturb” sign) – otherwise pumping at work will be tough to do without privacy.
Declutter the Schedule
Returning to work is tiring and stressful. So don’t plan entertaining or big weekend events for a couple of weeks. You can even take a break from swimming lessons or other family activities. It can take a while for you, and the family, to replenish energy stores – so you’ll need all the non-work time you can find. And remember all the meals you froze prior to giving birth? Time to stock the freezer again.
When all is said and done, all you can do is your best. It will be hard, and it will either get easier, or you will reinvent yourself (you’d be amazed at how many mums do just that). In our experience, nothing clears the head like thoughts of the little ones waiting at home every night.
Yo, mama! Struggling with the whole elusive work/life balance thing? The following reads have helped us during those guilt-ridden moments:
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