Returning to Work after Maternity Leave

Around this time last year I was beginning my return to work from my maternity leave. 

In some ways those first shaky, sweaty postpartum sessions feel like YEARS ago. I’ve learned so much (about mothering, about myself, about life) and so much has changed within my business since then. Mostly all good.

Today I’m sharing my tips for returning to work after maternity leave - what I’m glad I did, and what I’m glad I didn’t do. As with birth, each woman’s postpartum journey is different, so please take from this what feels supportive and leave what doesn’t or doesn’t apply to your situation.

1 - Go slowly and give yourself a ton of grace. 

Especially in those early days when you may not be getting full nights of sleep, when your baby is still feeding from your body, when your hormones are still raging and regulating, and you’re still learning SO much… you may not have the mental, energetic, or creative capacity for full time work.

I started seeing clients around three months postpartum, but just one afternoon a week. I slowly worked my way up to two afternoons, then three, then fuller days. It probably wasn’t until Flynn was at least six months before I got up to my “full” schedule, which by the way is still only part time.

Part of the reason I left my corporate job all those years ago was so that I would have ultimate flexibility in my schedule when I did become a mom, but you don’t have to work for yourself to plan a more gradual return to work!

I highly recommend starting with a reduced client schedule, or fewer weekly hours. You’re way less likely to burn out this way, and my guess is you’ll also feel less resentful since you’ll still get lots of snuggle time with your new baby.

2 - Know that everything may change, and you have time to figure out your “new way”

When you have a baby, there is also a new version of you who is born. While this is especially true for first time mamas (the primary maiden to mother initiation), I’ve also heard from mamas of multiples that there’s a little death and rebirth that happens with each child.

And when you change, your work probably will change too, especially if you’re someone who does creative or soul-driven work. 

This doesn’t mean that you have to know exactly what’s next for you when that baby arrives. I certainly didn’t, and in many ways I’m still finding my path as a working mom. 

My advice is simply to acknowledge that what worked before (the type of work, how you worked, who you worked with) may no longer be the best fit. 

And also to get curious when you do feel frustration, or like something isn’t working - these feelings, and perhaps even upsets, are clues as to your next right steps and how your business can work better for you, now, as a mother. 

3 - Get support from other like-minded mamas, those who have walked a similar path before you

At about six months postpartum I hired a coach, and I’m still working with her now! I knew there was a new way of working and of relating to my work as a mom, but I wasn’t totally sure how to figure that out for myself. 

So I sought guidance and mentorship from someone who I knew had been in my shoes, who had walked a similar path and who had created a business that was inspirational to me. 

Hiring someone to hold space for your post-baby business transformation is one of the best investments you can make. 

I would not be where I am today in my business (most profitable year by far, working with the best clients, creating the most exciting and aligned programs) without her support. 

And with this, know that just like your business journey, your postpartum experience is unique. I started work again at three months, that doesn’t mean you should. You might be ready sooner, or not for another year. 

The mother’s instinct is strong - this is true with parenting decisions, and also in business. Trust your gut.

Trust what your gut is guiding you towards, whether that’s more time off or joining a local moms group or finding a coach. 

If you’re in the midst of this big transition right now - I see you mama. 

I hope that these words felt supportive, and perhaps encouraged you that whatever you’re feeling about returning to work isn’t wrong. And that you get to take time to find your footing again. And that you can be deeply supported along the way.

What was your experience like returning to work after having a baby?

If you did it again, what would you do the same or differently?

Would love to hear in the comments below!