Going back to work after maternity leave can feel like one of the hardest transitions you’ll face as a parent. There’s excitement about returning to your routine — but also guilt, worry, and the fear of missing precious moments.
If you’re in this season, you’re not alone. These five honest tips from parents who’ve been there can help you find your rhythm again, manage emotions, and make your return to work a little smoother.
Managing Working Mum Guilt After Maternity Leave
The guilt often hits harder than expected. Missing firsts, being away for long stretches, or wondering if you’re doing the right thing.
What helped us was reframing how we saw work. It wasn’t just time away from our child. It was part of how we provided for them and built a life for our family.
We also found that the time we did spend together became more intentional. Bedtime stories, morning cuddles, or a silly song in the car felt even more special because they were ours.
2.
Balancing Chores, Work,
& Family Time
There were plenty of nights when the dirty clothes piled up, dinner was rushed, and we felt pulled in ten directions. What helped was when we stopped trying to be perfect.
We started sharing the load more evenly, asking for help when we needed it, and accepting that sometimes the dishes could wait if it meant sitting on the floor to play with our children.
One small shift that made a big difference? Prepping the night before, things such as packing bags, laying out clothes, and planning simple meals. It made mornings calmer which meant you weren’t going off to work already feeling stressed.
Giving Yourself Permission
for “Adult Time”
It’s easy to feel guilty for wanting time to yourself after maternity leave, but self-care isn’t selfish. A parent who’s recharged and fulfilled is far more present with their child.
Whether it’s listening to a podcast on your commute, catching up with a friend, or taking a quiet bath, small acts of self-care help restore your energy.
Remember: you matter too, and taking care of yourself helps you take better care of your family.
4.
Planning Breastfeeding and Childcare Before Returning to Work
The practical side of returning to work after maternity leave can be just as overwhelming as the emotional side.
We found that a little planning went a long way. Setting a pumping routine, coordinating drop-offs and pick-ups, and packing bags the night before.
It won’t always go perfectly (and that’s okay), but having a plan and a backup plan helps make the transition feel manageable and less stressful.
5. Building a Support Network as a Working Parent
The biggest lesson we learned? You can’t (and shouldn’t) do it all on your own. A strong support network makes all the difference. Whether that’s family, friends, coworkers, or other parents who get it.
Be honest about what you need, ask for help, and let others step in. It doesn’t make you weak, it makes you stronger and gives you space to be the kind of parent you want to be.
Our Final Thoughts
Returning to work after maternity leave is a huge adjustment, and it’s okay if it doesn’t feel easy at first. Give yourself permission to learn, stumble, and grow into your new routine.
Every family’s balance looks different, and there’s no single “right way” to do it. What matters most is remembering that you’re doing an incredible job, even when it doesn’t feel like it.
