Into Motivation

It’s never easy taking a career break, but sometimes ‘you’ve just got to do, what you’ve got to do,’ as the saying goes. The decision may be necessary if you have a special event ahead of you, welcoming a newborn into this world. Quite rightfully, the career must be on hold as the mum-to-be focuses on what’s ahead and places all her resources to work on the imminent arrival of the child, instead of the career. Thankfully, our society is very understanding and mum is very rarely in a financial bind during these all-important days.

Relatively few women actually go through the effort of planning out a career in its entirety, taking into account what they plan to do in their life from a personal perspective and mapping out how they will handle childbirth, all the way through to the transition back to the workplace. The vast majority of women find it very difficult to determine how their life will unfold in front of them, whether it be in career terms or personal life and most especially given the uncertainty caused by bad economic times. Such economic turmoil is enough to throw anyone’s plans off track, but for the mother getting ready to return to work after her break, it can be a particularly stressful time.

There are a large number of reasons why mum needs to be super confident after baby arrives and she wants to return to work:

First, she should never forget that she was hired because of her personality, ability, education and skill sets. This is a great combination that most human resources department heads are looking for and are equally aware represents a fairly rare find. While not being overly promotional, she should shrewdly draw attention to these assets.

Next, she needs to remember that she has nothing to feel guilty about. Childbirth is a natural right for women in our society and the vast majority of employers recognise and accept

their liabilities as a consequence of doing business. It is sure to be quite disruptive for any employer, but everybody can take this in stride and deal with it and it’s certainly not a reason for the mum to feel guilty.

Third, don’t forget that you will have picked up some excellent managerial and planning techniques, as you moved through the process of childbirth and family planning. These are not to be under-estimated, as you will be able to convert them into valuable assets at work, when you go back.

Fourth, remember that, on average, 50% of the workforce is made up of women, a large proportion of whom fully sympathise with your position, as they have been in your position! You will have many a sympathetic ear, when you return.

Lastly, the fact that you now have a family to take care of is a marvellous achievement in its own right. You should feel justifiably proud of your achievement and if you can go through the process of childbirth, then you really are ready for anything you will face in the workplace!

Don’t worry if you think it’s too much for you, as professional coaching can help you get through it. These days, online coaching is a truly valuable resource for our hectic daily lives, as in most cases, professional coaching for women returning from a career break can help to smooth over any potential difficulties you might envisage.

Amanda Alexander is Director of Coaching Mums and a highly acclaimed ICF-accredited coach who delivers professional coaching programmes to working mums who yearn for success, balance and fulfilment. Are you a juggling mom? Download our free eBook for working moms that will give you 5 simple and instant ways to balance your life right now!