Simple Strategies for Moms to Manage Back-to-Work Anxiety
Moms wear many hats on any given day, and working is often one of them. Some moms return to work after maternity leave because they find joy and fulfillment in their career, and others go back out of necessity.
No matter the reason, returning to the workforce isn’t easy, but the right mindset and some concrete strategies can help smooth the transition. It can be easy to feel guilty or stressed, but you know you’re making the right decision. If you’re feeling anxious about going back to work, these tips may help.
Look for Flexibility
Before going back to work, talk to your employer about flexible work options. If you have a job that’s not tied to the office, you could request to work from home. Going back part-time would be another option, especially if you have to return to the physical office. Both would allow you to have more time at home. Many employers are also willing to consider flexible hours so you could work around your available childcare.
Have Trusted Childcare
Going back to work as a mom is much easier if you feel good about who is watching your child. Take some time to research local daycare options to see if one is a good fit for you. Consider your child’s needs and create a list of important aspects to look for in a childcare facility.
Practice Mindfulness
A lot of articles on stress management will tell you to go for a walk, meditate or take a break when you’re feeling overwhelmed. However, if you’re at the office in the middle of a busy workday, those strategies may not be an option. You don’t have to just ignore your feelings, though. Practicing mindfulness throughout the day can help you acknowledge your emotions and ease your worries, and can be as simple as closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths.
Prioritize Your Health
While mindfulness will help your mental health, it’s also important to take care of your physical health when returning to work. Transitioning back to an office setting can increase your risk of getting sick.
You can avoid catching a cold or virus by stocking your desk with hand sanitizer, taking breaks outside for fresh air and packing healthy lunches. A balanced diet of vitamins, protein, omega-3s and more can strengthen your immunity to keep you happy and healthy at work.
Be Kind to Yourself
As you open up about your feelings of back-to-work anxiety, you will most likely uncover some negative thoughts and emotions. Feelings of mom-guilt and imposter syndrome are common among moms of all backgrounds. Leaving your children is tough, and the workplace can seem daunting if you’ve been gone for a while. Go ahead and feel those feelings. They’re there for a reason. Now let them go.
Just Remember…
You are amazing! You were great at your job before leaving to be a mom. Now, your children will get to see you rock the workplace as they grow up. Lean on your support system, and you’ll find a new normal before you know it. With these simple strategies, you’ll be better prepared to cope with back-to-work anxiety.
Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She has a passion for writing about ways to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life, especially for new moms.
