Getting back to work after your maternity leave is a very difficult step to adjust to.  You need to prepare yourself and your baby for the change that is going to occur.  Learn how to make the move back into your job easier.

Do you really want to get back to work?

First of all, you should try and enjoy the idea of getting back to work, no matter what your reason is.  Try to think of how your work can benefit your family and how it can help to make you a better mom.  Many women go back to work only because they must. Even so, try to think about the financial advantages you will be able to provide your family with, and about the stimulation you will get from a bit of adult company.  If you feel unhappy about the idea of getting back to work, find another solution.  Turn into a full time mom, work only part time or work from home.  Think out what your different options are, and choose one you can manage both financially and mentally. 

Preparing for the change

Here are some guidelines on how to manage the move back into working life.

Getting used to being apart
Leave your baby with family or the babysitter for an increasing number of hours before you get back to work.  That way both of you can slowly get used to the idea of spending time apart.  You may find it terribly difficult to tear yourself away, but you may discover that sometime away from your baby is not as bad as you thought it would be.  The problem begins when it's a lot of time away, which makes things more difficult. 

Rediscovering your work place
a. Make a trip to your work place to see how things are going on.  Talk to friends from the office to see if any changes or events have happened while you were away.
b. Get to know your company's policy regarding parenting and working.  You can consult other mothers in the office place, or even discuss the policy with your employer to help you understand how your working place will respond to your need for greater flexibility (when your child is sick, a school play etc.)
c.  If you see that going back full time is too much, inquire about other options that might suite you and your employer.

Breastfeeding
As you must know, breastfeeding receives high points with baby care professionals.  If you go back to work at an early stage of your child's development, it might be a good option to continue breastfeeding.  Try to excerpt breast milk to feed him when you're away, it is known to contribute to the development of your child's immune system and general health. On an emotional level, breastfeeding is a way to keep that special bond with your child when you are around to actually breastfeed.  So if you can, try to continue breastfeeding once you get back to work, or combine between formula and breastfeeding if you prefer. 

Organize yourself
It will be much easier for you if you manage to get into routine activity and preparation.  Always have your baby bag ready with all the needed items, have a spare shirt or jacket in the care incase your precious one is sick all over your cloths, get your cooking routine into to order so you don't waste time, arrange distribution of housework with your partner.  The more organized you are, keeping a daily routine and preparing yourself for mishaps, the easier it will be to juggle family and career.

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