A mother returning to work after parental leave, a holiday, or work leave can be a stressful process filled with many different feelings and emotions. Having a guide in place can help relieve some of this stress.
Much of the stress alleviation methods focus on planning and a consideration of what works best for you. At the end of the day, the returning to work process is something that you need to lead.
This blog provides a guide for mothers returning to work. We take an approach that centres the mother so that she is able to make the best decision for herself.
Evaluate Yourself
Starting off, make sure that you and your family are all prepared before getting back to the workforce. Self-assessment more often than not will help you transition in a more comfortable manner and can help workers and mothers alike.
Childcare Options
If you plan on getting back to work, one of the first things that you will need to tackle is finding childcare. With children being your top priority for the time being, resources like We Need a Nanny will ensure that you will be able to focus on your work and know that your child is safe in your absence.
Emotional Preparations
That said, step back and try to think emotionally as well. A lot of anxiety can stem from your child’s care and if they are safe while you are at work. Having a mixed bag of emotions of being excited and petrified is normal due to the fact that a huge change to your and your family’s life is on the horizon and preparing will lessen these negative feelings.
Financial Readiness
Last but not least, having an accurate picture of your family’s finances is imperative alongside your job. Think about how income and childcare expenses will impact your family finances once you go back to work. Evaluating this will aid you in achieving this transition in the smoothest way possible.
Look Into Flexible Work Choices
As part of their efforts to support parents returning to work, many Australian employers offer flexible working arrangements. If you consider these options, it may make the transition much easier. You can discuss with your employer which of these flexible arrangements fits with your lifestyle.
Part-time Work Opportunities
Part-time roles allow you to address work and family obligations, ensuring that neither requires overwhelming amounts of time.
Remote Work
For those who prefer even greater flexibility, remote work enables one to work from home, minimising the commute, and allowing more productive time management.
Job Share
Job share is another alternative that allows you to share the full-time position with another employee to make the optimum workload more achievable.
Get Help
Having the right support system makes the transition back to work much easier. These types of services can be beneficial for you at this time and can help to ensure that your suitable duties are completed at work.
Reaching out to other mothers that are going through the same changes as you can be helpful. Local peer groups and online forums foster a sense of belonging and recognition.
Always remember that your family and friends can help you on an emotional or practical level, which can be really helpful. Their support can truly help shape your experience.
Take care of yourself
Juggling your professional and family responsibilities can be challenging, but self-care is key. Being able to separate work and personal time will prevent and help you overcome burnout, letting you live your life to the fullest.
This is an essential, but often neglected aspect, of a worker's recovery.
You should make sure you schedule regular me-time to participate in whatever activity makes you re-energise. This can be exercising, picking up a new hobby or even lazing around; whatever the case may be, just do it so you can stay focused and energised.
You can always seek out a professional counsellor or psychologist if these changes are feeling too much. Remembering that taking care of your mental health is not only helpful for you, but also your family and job will help shift the way you think.
Consider Nanny Services
Probably the hardest thing for most mothers returning to work is getting reliable childcare. Nanny services offer the flexibility and personalized care that many working parents require.
Unlike most daycare centres, nannies work on a one-on-one basis with children, meaning each child receives the appropriate individualised care they require. This unique approach enables parents to go back to work without worrying too much about their child.
Nanny services are especially useful for parents with unconventional work hours or those in need of variable scheduling. A nanny allows you to tailor a routine that works best for your family. Also, having a nanny at home relieves daily drop-off and pick-up stressors, enabling you to work undisturbed.
Closing thoughts
Re-entering the workforce in Australia as a mother is a process that needs consideration and support. Using nanny services and keeping communication with your employer active allows you to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Welcome this new stage with courage and adaptability because, with the right strategy, there is success waiting for you. Be it part-time help, full-time caregivers, or ad hoc assistance, We Need A Nanny has options to suit every request.
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