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After a long while of being immersed in changing diapers, night feeding and baby giggles, it’s finally time to step back into the workforce.
Returning back to that life as a new mom, whether it’s been weeks, months, or even years since you last had a work call without one hand holding a tiny human, is a significant transition.
The good part is, you’re not alone. Thousands of women make this brave leap every year. And so, what exactly should you expect when returning to the workforce as a new mom? Let’s break it down with lots of honesty and practical advice.
1. Expect a Rollercoaster of Emotions
The uncertainty in your emotional state is one of the first things to expect. You may feel excited, guilty, nervous, empowered, all in the span of one lunch break.
On that first back-to-work morning, you might cry in the car or feel like dancing on your way to the office. And both are 100% valid.
Practice self-compassion. Give yourself grace and time to adjust. Talk to other working moms. It will be of great help. You can find helpful communities on platforms like The Life Of A Working Mom or join our growing tribe over at The Life of a Working Mom for relatable content, resources, and support.
2. You Might Not Feel As Confident
Even if you were a superstar in your role before maternity leave, it’s normal to question your skills after time away. It’s totally normal to feel out of the loop when it comes to the latest software, or for your brain to still be at home with your baby. Totally normal.
Start slow and be kind to yourself. Your professional instincts are still intact, they just need a little dusting off.
Platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera are fantastic for brushing up on workplace tools, leadership skills, and tech updates.
3. Returning To the Workforce Can Be Surprisingly Awkward
This point should have probably been a warning at the beginning. Returning to the workforce can feel like showing up late to a party. Everyone’s already in the middle of their conversations, and you’re trying to catch up. Company policies may have changed. There might be new team members. The dress code might have shifted.
And if you’re a remote-working mom? Get ready to master the art of muting your mic while yelling, “Don’t put that in your mouth!”
Speaking of remote work, check this out if you need quick tips on how to glam up for your next Zoom meeting.
4. Your Priorities Will Shift
Your priorities will change and that’s okay. Before motherhood, you might’ve been the last one to leave the office. Now? You’ll be rushing out at 5 p.m. sharp to beat traffic and get to daycare before the school calls.
You may feel torn between being the perfect employee and the perfect mother.Good news is, you don’t have to be perfect. You only have to be present.
Set boundaries early. Let your manager know your working hours and build a routine that supports both your career and family life.
5. Pumping At Work: A Necessary Hustle
If you’re breastfeeding, navigating pumping at the workplace can be a lot. You’ll need a private space, breaks during the day, and probably an efficient cooler bag.
It;s also important to know your rights. In many countries (including Ghana), employers are required to provide lactation breaks and a clean, private space to pump.
Check out ILO’s Maternity Protection Resource Package for details on your legal protections in the workplace.
6. Your Productivity Might Dip (Yes, Dip) At First
Ever heard of ‘mom brain’? It’s not a myth. It’s your brain adjusting to its new priorities. You may not be running at 100% productivity level right away, and that’s fine.
Start by organizing your day in blocks. Prioritize what truly needs your focus, and lean on productivity tools like Trello, Notion, or good old sticky notes. And don’t forget to schedule breaks.
For more tips on managing your time, check out this post on The Life of a Working Mom.
7. Finding Good Childcare Might Be A Headache
Finding reliable childcare is like unlocking a secret level in life; you suddenly have superpowers. Be it a nanny, daycare, or your mother-in-law, knowing your baby is safe and happy gives you peace of mind and space to be present at work.
However, even with the best plan, things can still go sideways. Children get sick. Caregivers cancel appointments (they have lives too). So be ready with backup options and a flexible mindset.
Our blog post on Working Moms and Nannies dives into the emotional and realistic balancing act of outsourcing childcare.
8. Your Support System Will Matter More Than Ever
From your spouse to your manager to your support group, your circle will play a huge role in how smoothly you return to the workforce. Communicate clearly about your needs and lean on your people.
If your workplace offers a return-to-work mentor or HR support, take it. If not, create your own ‘board of directors’ made up of trusted friends, colleagues, and mentors who can help you stay grounded.
Explore support communities like Working Mother to find moms in similar stages of the journey.
9. Your Career Might Take a New Direction
Motherhood has a funny way of sharpening your sense of purpose. Some moms return to their previous roles and thrive. Others pivot. They start businesses, change industries, or seek more family-friendly workplaces.
If your current job no longer aligns with your goals or values, don’t be afraid to explore. You’ve evolved and so can your career.
Keep your LinkedIn active. Highlight any new skills and start networking again, even if it’s just a few minutes a week.
10. You Are Not Alone
Every working mom has faced the chaos of morning routines, forgotten lunch boxes, and work calls interrupted by loud cries. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to ask for help.
At The Life of a Working Mom, we’re building a space where moms like you can laugh, learn, vent, and support each other. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Returning to the workforce as a new mom is some sort of rebirth; not just for your career, but for your identity. It can get messy and hard, but it’s also empowering, because you’re not starting over. You’re starting stronger.
Your experience as a mom brings new strengths to the table: empathy, time management, resilience, and an unmatched ability to function on three hours of sleep(or less). Use them to your advantage. Own them at your workplace. And be in full mommy-superhero mode.
FAQs: Returning to the Workforce as a New Mom
1. How soon should I return to the workforce after giving birth?
This depends on your health, family situation, and company policies. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Choose what’s right for you.
2. What are my rights as a new mom at work?
In many countries, you’re entitled to maternity leave, pumping breaks, and non-discrimination. Check your local labor laws or HR department for details.
3. How can I balance work and motherhood effectively?
Set boundaries, communicate openly, build a support system, and give yourself grace. It’s a constant balancing act, but you can master it over time.
4. What if I want to change careers after maternity leave?
That’s completely understandable! Maternity leave can offer clarity. Consider career coaching, networking, and online courses to explore new paths.
5. Where can I find support groups for working moms?
Start with Facebook, Instagram, or even your local community center. Also check out our post on Find Your Tribe: Support Groups for Working Moms for specific recommendations
Did this post resonate with you? Share it with a fellow mom who might be navigating her way back into the workforce and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more uplifting, real-life tips for working moms.
