Navigating the Return to Work After Parental Leave
Returning to work after parental leave can be challenging. The emotional strain of leaving a child and the stress of resuming work responsibilities can be overwhelming. Many, like Amy Beacom, founder and CEO of the Center for Parental Leave Leadership, emphasize the adjustment required. Beacom notes that parents often juggle learning two new roles under pressure without support, especially mothers.
The U.S. lacks federal paid leave, compelling some women to return to work just two weeks post-birth. Even with several months of protected, paid leave, reentry can be tough. Still, Beacom offers strategies for a smoother transition back to work.
Make Work More Manageable
Returning parents often think their work conditions are immutable and refrain from discussing preferences with their managers. Beacom suggests that employers generally want content, engaged employees. Therefore, it’s feasible to propose adjustments.
To ease back in:
- Plan ahead: Before leave, discuss your return with your manager so everyone is aligned about your reentry.
- Schedule check-ins: Arrange for brief updates with your employer during your leave to ensure mutual preparedness.
- Return mid-week: This allows time to acclimate, clear your inbox, and resume tasks without the full burden of a complete workweek.
- Adjust work hours: Small changes, like shifting your workday, might ease day care logistics or commutes.
Embracing Imperfection
You might notice an unexpected ease in your job once back. Brain researcher Darby Saxbe highlights that parenting can hone discipline and efficiency due to its inherent demands. Yet, balancing work and parenting isn’t seamless. Saxbe advises letting “good” suffice rather than seeking perfection.
Reshma Saujani of Moms First recommends evaluating the necessity of additional tasks. Consider what is essential versus merely a “gold star” on your record. Understanding which pressures are self-imposed can alleviate unnecessary stress.
It takes time to fully adapt to new parenting roles. Research indicates that it might take months or even two years for parents to feel wholly themselves again. Saxbe stresses the importance of patience during this transformational period.