Finding Support as a New Working Mom — 3 Tips for Successfully Easing the Transition

Over 50% of women return to work after their maternity leave, according to the Mayo Clinic Health System. While some may be eager to jump into their new role as a working mother, maintaining a healthy work-life balance can become a major challenge. From navigating childcare to maintaining a clean house, worries can be found around every corner when looking to transition into a new routine. Having support is just one paramount aspect of making the transition easier – and thankfully, it can be found in more ways than one.

Navigating childcare options

On average, it takes most new moms four months and 23 days to adjust to motherhood, a new baby and a new lifestyle, according to a study led by the baby brand Munchkin. With that in mind, returning to work can make for a stressful transition as a new mother, and asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of.

While finding support in a partner can help when it comes to splitting the household and parenting responsibilities, this isn’t a realistic scenario for everyone. For those who don’t have a partner or whose partner is also working, reliable childcare — whether it be in the form of a professional sitter, daycare, or a family member — can put your mind at ease.

In turn, you’ll be better able to focus on work in knowing that your baby is being well taken care of. Whattoexpect.com notes that having a backup sitter in place, whether that be a family member or close friend can be a smart way to navigate childcare as a new, working mom. This can be particularly helpful should an emergency or another unforeseen situation arises, and will give you the peace of mind in knowing that you have more than just one option. From a babysitter calling in sick to daycare cancellations – or even if you (or your partner) need to go into work at the last minute, you’ll know your child will be well taken care of.

How professionals can make a difference

Going back to work and navigating motherhood can be stressful enough, and household duties can understandably become put on hold for far too long. However, as an unclean and cluttered house can lead to unnecessary stress on top of an already overwhelming transition, enlisting the help of a professional cleaning service can play a key role in getting to a healthy work-life balance in a few key ways.

For starters, professional cleaners have the proper equipment and will ensure your home is cleaned thoroughly, thus saving you time and energy while allowing you to focus on work and motherhood. With the ability to schedule regular cleanings as well as tailor the service to what you need — from organizing to standard and deep cleaning options, you can rest assured in knowing that your home is taken care of by experienced and reputable professionals. 

Defining balance in your own way

When looking to maintain a healthy work-life balance as a new mom, Very Well Family notes that finding your own definition of balance is essential. Not comparing yourself to others is a key part of this, according to the post, as having to miss out on an activity with your child due to work doesn’t mean that you’re a bad parent.

While some may find balance in working part-time, others may choose to implement boundaries by disconnecting from work while at home. Regardless, Very Well Family points out that your definition will vary based on a variety of factors — including your job, level of support, wants, and priorities, and stresses the importance of continuing to redefine your definition of balance as time goes on. 

Parents.com notes that staying connected with your children — even if you’re not together, can be a fantastic way to ease the transition and can be done in a variety of ways. While making yourself accessible to your child’s caregiver throughout the day can be achieved by keeping your phone nearby, Parents.com recommends hanging pictures of your family at work, recording yourself talking or singing on a video, or recording your voice reading along to a children’s book. “During your breaks at work, call your child; hearing her can help you get through a rough day, and she’ll be comforted to know you’re near,” the post suggests, highlighting a comforting form of support that can help ease the transition of becoming a working mom.

Finding your groove as a new working mom can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding a healthy work-life balance. However, finding the right balance for you is essential, while finding support — from quality child care to a professional cleaning service – can make a noticeable difference.