Returning to work: A new chapter begins
After 11 months of maternity leave, the time has come for me to return to work. This period away from my professional life has been nothing short of a blessing and a privilege, an experience I will always hold close to my heart. Having the blissful opportunity to witness my babies' development and spend as much time with them as possible has been invaluable. Every little milestone, every new word, every giggle and smile—these moments have filled my heart with joy and gratitude.
During this time, I have also dedicated myself to building Cbrmamas to its full potential. While this has been a rewarding endeavor, it has also brought with it a certain pressure that I placed upon myself. Balancing my entrepreneurial ambitions with the demands of motherhood has been a challenging yet fulfilling journey. This maternity leave allowed me to delve into reading and learning about the kind of mum I aspire to be, and I’ve consciously tried to implement these learnings in my daily life. I’ve immersed myself in books, articles, and discussions, seeking wisdom and strategies to become a more patient, present, and understanding mother.
However, I’ve come to realize that I am still an easily triggered mother, striving to balance a billion things at once. Despite my efforts to develop myself as a mum of two, I find that I thrive on staying stimulated and juggling multiple responsibilities. It’s a part of who I am, and while it can be overwhelming at times, it also brings a sense of accomplishment and purpose. I’ve learned to accept that it's okay not to be perfect and that growth is a continuous process.
With Steve working at the mines, our relationship has faced its own set of challenges. The distance and the demanding nature of his job have required us to find new ways to stay connected and support each other. Yet, I am proud to say that even with kids in the mix, our bond continues to grow stronger every day. Of course, we have our tiffs and moments of resentment, but that’s just part of being human, right? The important thing is that we understand these feelings, communicate openly about them, and work through them together.
As I prepare to return to work, I am filled with a mix of emotions. It breaks my heart to leave my kids each day, especially seeing Ollie cry during morning drop-offs. The thought of not being there for every moment, every milestone, tugs at my heartstrings. However, I am also excited to don my career hat once again and engage in work that I enjoy and find fulfilling. Returning to work means reconnecting with colleagues, diving into projects, and contributing to something bigger than myself. It’s a chance to reclaim a part of my identity that I had put on hold.
I am immensely thankful for the time I’ve had this year to be with my children and to grow as a mother. These months have been a period of reflection, growth, and deep connection with my family. Now, I am ready to embrace this new chapter, balancing my roles as a dedicated mum and a passionate professional. Here’s to new beginnings and the adventures that lie ahead!
Tips and Tricks for Returning to Work:
Prepare Emotionally: It's normal to feel a mix of emotions. Acknowledge your feelings and give yourself grace during this transition.
Create a Morning Routine: Establish a consistent morning routine to help your child feel secure and make drop-offs smoother. Maybe a special goodbye ritual can make parting easier.
Organise Your Time: Plan your day the night before. Make a to-do list to help you stay organised and focused both at work and at home. I have Noa pick out her clothes the night before and make sure bags are packed and ready for the day ahead.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on your support system. Whether it’s your partner, family, or friends, having a strong support network can make all the difference.
Self-Care is Crucial: Take time for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes a day. Read a book, take a walk, or simply relax with a cup of tea. Self-care helps you recharge and be the best version of yourself.
Communicate with Your Employer: Keep an open line of communication with your employer about your needs as a returning mum. Flexibility can help ease the transition.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements, whether it's a successful project at work or a smooth bedtime routine. Every win counts.
To all the mums out there who are juggling multiple roles and striving to find balance, know that you are not alone. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs, but each step is a testament to your strength and resilience. As I step back into the professional world, I carry with me the lessons and love from these past 11 months, ready to take on new challenges and celebrate new successes. Here’s to us and the incredible journey of motherhood and beyond!