Top tips for returning from maternity leave
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the idea of returning to work after maternity leave? Whether it’s your first time or your third, juggling motherhood and a career can feel like an impossible balancing act.
You’re not alone — and you can do this.
I’ve returned from maternity leave three times, and each experience taught me something new. I'm not an expert, just a working mum who has lived it — so here are the real, honest tips that helped me transition back into work while keeping my sanity (mostly!).
Sort childcare early
Reliable childcare is essential. Start looking a few months before your return date — options include:
Family members
Your partner
Nursery/daycare
A childminder
Workplace crèche (if you’re lucky!)
👉 Top tip: Cost is a big factor, so understand your options early — it may also influence any flexible working arrangements you request. The ‘right’ childcare option will depend on your unique circumstances.
Most importantly, trust your instincts. Leaving your baby is emotional — it’s okay to feel emotional. Be kind to yourself through the transition and be patient with yourself and your little one.
2. Plan your return to work with flexibility in mind
Phasing your return can make a huge difference — whether that’s starting part-time or working shorter hours for the first few weeks.
Flexible working options to consider:
Part-time hours
Compressed hours (e.g. four long days)
Remote/hybrid working
Adjusted start/finish times
Job sharing
There is no blueprint for this, you will need to honestly evaluate what the ideal return would look like for you and then see if this is compatible with your role.
In the UK, all employees with 26+ weeks of service can legally request flexible working. Your employer must consider it and provide a valid reason if it’s declined. Note that the request must be made in writing and you will need to explain the desired change and how it could work in practice.
Don’t feel guilty for asking. If you don’t ask, you don’t get — and you deserve a set-up that supports both you and your family.
3. Know your value and embrace the new you
You are not the same person you were before maternity leave — and that’s a good thing. You’ve gained:
Project Management Skills: You ran a 24/7 operation (aka parenting!)
Conflict Resolution: Ever handled a toddler tantrum mid-tesco trip?
Networking: Built community via mum groups, WhatsApp chats, soft play alliances
Take time to write down the strengths you’ve gained — it’ll remind you of your value and boost your confidence going back in.
4. Support network (don’t go it alone)
They say it takes a village — and they’re right.
Create a visual map of your support system:
Emotional support: partner, friends, therapist, faith community
Practical help: cleaner, family help, meal deliveries
Childcare back-up: someone who can do an emergency nursery pick-up
Connect with other working mums — whether in person or online. Talking to someone who gets it is priceless offering a space to vent and offer encouragement.
5. Be patient with yourself!
Don't expect to dive back in like nothing’s changed — because you have changed. The new you will be even more of an asset to your team and employer, especially if you embrace the new you.
It’s okay to feel off-balance at first. You may be sleep-deprived, overwhelmed, or questioning everything.
And yes — not sleeping properly makes everything harder. Go easy on yourself.
Know that you’ve never done this before (if it’s not the first child, this is also new). It is normal to work through some teething problems as you learn and adapt.
You don’t need to prove yourself — you already are enough.
I felt that going back I needed to prove that I was just as competent and committed as everyone else! The truth is you don’t need to prove yourself to anyone else. You have a unique set of skills and these have only been enhanced by your maternity leave.
6. Set boundaries that honour your values
Ask yourself: What does success look like for me now?
If family time is a top value, what boundaries do you need to protect it?
Examples:
No work emails after 7pm
Log off early for school pick-up
Block time for lunch or a walk
Boundaries aren’t selfish — they’re essential. This is your life, not anyone else's.
Try a values mapping exercise to solidify what matters most to you. There is no one size fits all, it’s all centred on you and what really matters in YOUR life! No judgement needed.
7. Prioritise self care
Self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s essential! You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Ideas include:
Go for a walk solo
Catch up with a friend
Take a long bath, guilt-free
Journal or meditate
Take a break from social media (yep, those 1am scrolls…)
Loving yourself doesn’t take away from your love for others — it adds to it.
There’s beauty in the sacrificial love and service of being a mum, but loving yourself is equally as important!
Also you can accept help when it’s offered!
8. Get (and stay organised)to avoid burning out
Organising work, kids, school, and home can feel like running a small country. You’re not alone if you feel like you’re constantly dropping balls.
Here’s what’s helped me:
Shared family calendar (physical or Google)
Delegate household tasks — don’t carry it all alone
Weekly planning session (yes, plan to plan)
Meal prepping or batch cooking
A simple notebook for daily to-dos
Remember: “Organised” doesn’t mean perfect. It just means a little less chaos. I’m still working on this! Ultimately you can experiment and see why works best for you.
You’ve Got This
Some mums can’t wait to return to work. Others dread it. And some decide not to return at all — and that’s okay too.
Whatever path you’re on, know this: You’re doing an amazing job.
Want me to cover alternative options for mums post-maternity leave in a future post? Drop a comment or message — I’d love to hear from you.
