If you're pregnant and planning to return to work after your pregnancy, you may be wondering what changes other moms go through when they return from maternity leave. While every wife and mother is different, here are 5 key things that change for ambitious women returning to work after their first baby.
1. You are going through an adjustment period.
While being a mom is great, there will definitely be times where you feel overwhelmed by the new experience. It's completely normal! When a baby comes into your already busy life, it goes without saying that you will go through a period of adjustment. After all, you have to get used to the situation and your body also goes through changes. All of these changes mean that when you go back to work, you'll be going through these things along with the usual stress of office politics and the deadlines. Ultimately, you will find the balance between work and family. So rest assured, if things initially feel difficult, they will get easier.
2. You will have new feelings of conflict.
Guilty feelings that mothers have are real. No new mom finds it easy going back to work – especially on the first day. Sometimes this feeling persists and is more painful than you might expect. It is very normal and you should be kind to yourself during this time. Knowing that the intensity of these feelings usually diminishes over time may not make it any easier at the moment, but pretending it won't happen isn't wise either. Eventually you will get better at managing your feelings as you get used to your new life and the multiple roles you play.
3. You may be judged at work and treated differently.
The best scenarios are those where companies and employers provide a supportive environment. Usually, this means she shouldn't pre-judge you because you're a mom, in the form of less challenging work, fewer promotion and career responsibilities, or assuming you'll want to work less. If you're lucky enough to work for a company where many moms have successfully returned to work, you'll have role models everywhere who can assure you that it will all feel easier with time. Some of us may not be so lucky. If you think you can tackle the issue of bias and change it with a conversation, try discussing the issue with your manager or HR. However, sometimes you just have to go somewhere else to be appreciated the way you deserve. You may need to look for another job. Rest assured, there are many companies where women feel satisfied with their work.
4. You may feel like you need to prove yourself even more.
Because you may feel pre-judged or just worry, many ambitious moms will try to deliver more and work even harder than before. Every situation is different, but remember that your overall reputation and good work will speak for themselves and everyone is entitled to a bad day or a bad week. Keep in mind that there are many other issues that affect employee performance, where no one necessarily expects someone to “make it right” (at least right away). Know the value you are adding and if you want to show your commitment, get it noticed – don't just put in extra hours and assume that others will pay attention to your sacrifice!
5. You will become more aware of your time and time management.
This is another cliché that tends to be true. You may think you are already quite productive, but wait until you become a mom! You'll realize you can't make the day longer when you have to get something done and it's time to pick up the baby from daycare. If you're like many moms, you'll surprise yourself with your new delegation, prioritization, and time management skills.
