Returning to work after parental leave? How back to work coaching can benefit you

Returning to work after a break can be both exciting and daunting. Have you found yourself wondering how you will juggle work and family life? Are you feeling unsure about how to prepare for this transition? As a mum, you might be used to putting everyone else first, often neglecting your own needs and aspirations. It’s time to focus on you. 

As one client said to me last month “I didn’t know this support was a thing, and I didn’t realise how beneficial it would be for me. I wish others knew”. 

Why coaching is needed at this particular time?

Coaching is about unlocking your potential to maximise your own performance. When any professional (sports or working environment) goes through change, for example a new role, new team, new responsibilities, a change in systems, they are coached and supported by their manager or peers through this change.

Each time a mum goes through a pregnancy and welcomes a baby into the world they go through an undeniable amount of change. Physically, emotionally, mentally, hormonally, and this process of transition into motherhood is called Matresence. 

There is an increasing focus on supporting mum’s who are transitioning back to work. And rightly so. More and more research is being carried out and the evidence is increasingly showing how critical support is at this particular point of a mum’s personal and professional life. You can read more on the importance of support when returning to work here.

Back to work coaching is designed to help you navigate this transition smoothly and confidently.

Here are 3 key areas where back to work coaching can be immensely beneficial.

Managing Family/Life Balance

Practical Preparation

One of the primary challenges when returning to work is balancing family responsibilities with professional demands. A back to work coach can help you create a practical plan that includes:

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  Organising daily schedules to ensure a smooth routine for both work and family.

• Setting realistic expectations about what you can achieve at work and at home.
• Preparing for contingencies, plan B, C and D! Such as sick days or unexpected events.

Identifying and Setting Boundaries for Work/Life Balance

Establishing clear boundaries is crucial to maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Coaching can assist you in:

• Defining your non-negotiables and strategies to support you to stick to them.
• Communicating boundaries clearly to your employer and family.
• Time Management strategies to support you to maintain your boundaries, as they will slip from time to time.

Building Your Confidence Ahead of Returning to Work

Clarity on Your Goals and Direction

Understanding your career goals and direction is fundamental to a successful return. A coach can guide you in:

• Clarifying your professional goals and aligning them with your personal values.
• Developing a step-by-step plan to achieve these goals.
• Evaluating your career trajectory and identifying areas for growth and improvement.

Support for Difficult Conversations in Work

Returning to work often involves having tough conversations with employers, colleagues, or even yourself. Coaching provides strategies for:

• Negotiating flexible work arrangements that suit your new circumstances.
• Addressing any concerns or doubts you may have with your employer.
• Rebuilding professional relationships that may have lapsed during your absence.

Managing the Overwhelm

Tools to Support Around Time Management

Effective time management is key to handling the added responsibilities of work and home. Coaches can introduce you to:

• Prioritisation techniques to tackle the most important tasks first.
• Time-blocking methods to ensure dedicated time for work, family, and self-care.
• Productivity tools and apps that can help streamline your workflow.

Identifying and Overcoming Guilt

Guilt is a common feeling among those returning to work, particularly parents. A coach can help you:

• Develop strategies to manage and reduce guilt.
• Focus on the positive aspects of returning to work, such as personal growth and financial stability.

Working Through Childcare Options

Choosing the right childcare is crucial for peace of mind and effective work performance. Coaching can support you in:

• Exploring different childcare options and what suits your family best. Download our list of questions to ask your childcare provider
• Evaluating the pros and cons of each option.
• Develop a plan aligned with you and your baby on managing the transition.
• Creating a backup plan for emergencies or changes in childcare arrangements.

Conclusion

Returning to work after parental leave or any large amount of time away from work is a significant transition that comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Back to work coaching provides personalised support to help you manage family and work balance, build confidence, and address specific concerns like time management and childcare. By working with a coach, you can navigate this transition more smoothly and set yourself up for success in your professional and personal life.

If you would like to explore how back to work coaching could support your transition back to work whether that is through our:

1:1 online coaching or group coaching services, schedule a complimentary consultation here.

Hi, I’m Anne O’Leary, an executive coach, postpartum doula and mother of four. I work with individuals and employers to help parents integrate their work and life in a balanced way after they extend their family.

Whether you are heading back to work or back several months and would like support in navigating this transition, please feel free to get in touch.