Returning to work with confidence after maternity leave (without losing your mind)

Hey mama — welcome (almost) to the wild, unpredictable, but oh-so-precious world of working motherhood. Going back to work after having a baby is a bit like riding a unicycle while juggling: it's wobbly, you might drop things, but you'll find your balance. And yes, coffee will be your number one ally.

Here's how to rebuild your confidence, adjust your mindset, and put in place concrete routines to make this transition smoother — and more joyful — than you can imagine.

Why this return might seem so intense (real conversation)

• Mother's guilt: leaving your little one is a shock, and you may fear missing precious moments.
• The logistical constraints: childcare, travel, pumping your milk, and remembering where you were in your work.
• Professional doubt: being out of the office for weeks changes your perception of your skills — and that's normal.
• You and your job are evolving: you are no longer exactly the same person, and neither is your professional environment.

Changing mindset: confidence & resilience

1. Present your maternity break as a real step forward: you have gained in patience, empathy, and creativity.
2. Prepare what you're going to say to your boss: your life has changed, and you have a new way of looking at your work.
3. Find powerful mantras: for example "I come back stronger" or "Mom and professional, it's a combination, not a compromise".
4. Allow yourself not to be perfect: there will be difficult days, and that's totally OK.

Concrete strategies that truly make a difference

• Discuss with your employer before your return: requests for flexibility, teleworking, adjusted hours…
• Have a plan for pumping your milk: block out times, protect that time.
• Choose a childcare solution that reassures you: when you are calm about where the baby is going, you can concentrate better.
• Take it easy to get back into it: the first week (or the first month), take the time to readjust.
• Set small goals: no need to start a giant project from scratch.
• Create a circle of moms at work: other mothers who come back can be your greatest support.
• Taking care of yourself: a few moments to breathe deeply, walk, write, even if just for 5 minutes.

In the long term

• Take stock each week: what works, what can be adjusted.
• Keep negotiating your limits: what worked when the baby was small may change.
• Find or become a mom mentor: it strengthens your own strength while supporting others.
• Celebrate every victory: week 1, a well-run meeting, the moments when you persevered, even when it was tough.
• Protect your time: clearly separate your "work time" from your "mom time".

Frequently asked questions you might have

• I feel like I've lost my edge at work… Yes, that's normal. Listen to your team again, ask for updates, and move forward at your own pace.
• And the guilt of leaving baby? Talk with other moms, use affirmations, and remind yourself that working doesn't make you less of a mom — it makes you you .
• My boss is afraid of the idea of flexibility… Suggests scenarios: “What if I worked part-time for the first month?” An open discussion can lead to a compromise.

In summary
Returning to work after maternity leave isn't just going back to a job: it's entering a new phase of your life. There will be chaotic moments, magical moments, and days when you're exhausted — but you're not alone.

You've grown in ways you never expected, and you bring immense value: to your job, to your baby, and to yourself. So grab your coffee, your laptop, and move forward with courage, compassion — and a healthy dose of badassery.

You're doing great, mama!