Going back to work after a vacation or even just a regular weekend can be difficult, but going back to work after having a baby can seem downright impossible. If you’re getting ready to go back to work after your maternity leave, it’s normal to feel nervous and even overwhelmed. Having just had my fifth baby, I though it would be helpful to share some tips to help you make a smooth transition when you return to work:
1. Get organized
Being organized is key! You’ll soon realize that there isn’t enough time in the day, so it’s important to get organized in order to be as efficient as possible. It will also allow you to get through your workday and work week without any additional stress. Mornings tend to be the roughest part of the day, so take steps to get yourself up and out the door without working yourself into a frenzy. Pick your clothes out ahead of time, and have everything packed and ready to go. It will make a world of difference when it comes to getting yourself out the door.
2. Accept help
If you’re lucky, you’ll have some helpful friends and family close by and you’ll find that everyone wants to help in one way or another. Some people like to make dinner, others like to clean, while others just love holding babies. Don’t try to be superwoman or supermom. Accept help, especially if you feel like you need it. People like to help but generally don’t know what to do, so if you need something specific, speak up.
3. Put it all in perspective
Don’t feel guilty for going back to work. Some days will be harder than others, but you’ll get through. The more you love what you do, the easier it will be. Keep in mind, you’re not only helping provide for your family, but you’re also setting a great example for your children.
4. Go with the flow
There’s no question about it. Working, whether full-time or part-time, while caring for a newborn is difficult, and you’ll have some days that go smoothly and others that don’t. Cut yourself some slack, especially in the first few weeks as you’re adjusting. Soon enough you’ll naturally get into a routine and it will get easier, I promise.
5. Live in the moment
This is sometimes easier said than done. With so much going on in our lives today and so many distractions, it’s easy to get sidetracked and not live in the present. You’ll find that time will fly by faster than ever, so treasure each and every moment with your baby and make sure time spent away is worthwhile and enjoyable. The more you live in the moment, the more you will not only accomplish but also appreciate.
Tricia Meyer is Founder + Managing Attorney of Meyer Law, one of the fastest growing law firms in the United States. Meyer helps entrepreneurs and technology companies from startups to large corporations with day-to-day matters and notable clients include companies that have appeared on Shark Tank to companies gracing the Inc. 500 to some of the largest companies in the world.
Tricia has been named on the Forbes Next 1000 list, is one of the Most Influential Female Lawyers in Chicago according to Crain’s Chicago Business and been recognized as a top 10 technology lawyer.
As an entrepreneur and a lawyer, Meyer has a unique perspective and has mentored thousands of startups and scaling companies at tech incubators and accelerators across the United States such as 1871, WeWork Labs and Techstars. Tricia has been featured in Inc., Crain’s, Chicago Tribune, NBC Chicago, American Express OPEN Forum, and more. Learn more at www.MeetMeyerLaw.com and follow Meyer Law’s story on Instagram @loveyourlawyer.
