As you gear up for your maternity leave, you’re likely knee-deep in practical preparations. You’ve checked off the essentials—having candid chats with HR about your leave duration, scrutinizing your benefits, collaborating with your manager, and delegating responsibilities within your team. It’s a whirlwind of logistics that can feel overwhelming but needs to be tackled.
And yes, these logistical details are undeniably important.
But let me ask you this: have you taken a moment to prepare yourself for this remarkable—and sometimes tumultuous—transition?
For many expectant moms, the focus tends to be on the practical aspects of leave, but far fewer consider the emotional rollercoaster that often begins well before the baby arrives. It’s vital to recognize that your state of mind can significantly influence how you experience your leave. Taking the time to explore your emotions and introduce steadying practices into your daily routine can set a positive tone before welcoming your little one into the world.
In this journey of motherhood, it’s no secret that challenges abound in the workplace. Research shows that women often face judgments and biases once they step into the role of a mother, which can add stress to an already big life change. However, part of your preparation involves focusing on what you can control: your thought patterns, behaviors, and choices. Cultivating this understanding not only helps buffer you against negative opinions but is also an invaluable skill for any working parent.
I vividly remember my emotions swirling when I was pregnant with my first child. My mind raced with questions: How would my colleagues view my commitment? Would they doubt my capabilities? Will I be able to pass off my responsibilities before labor? How will I find childcare that fits my budget and my baby’s needs? Trust me, if you’ve found yourself pondering any (or all) of these thoughts, know you are far from alone.
But here’s the good news—I also felt equally excited amidst all that anxiety. The thought of snuggling my baby brought me joy, and I couldn’t wait to show my little one the beautiful blend of careers and motherhood. Remember, the flip side of anxiety is excitement, and it’s crucial to make space for that joy as well.
So, what daily practices can help you sift through the noise and find some calm as you approach your leave?
First, consider incorporating a brief, intentional pause before jumping into your workday. After I returned from my maternity leave, I established a habit during my commute that I wished I had started earlier. I would ride the metro, then enjoy a ten-minute walk to the office. During that walk, I’d take a moment to sit down on a park bench or in the lobby of a nearby hotel. I found grounding through breathing exercises, using the free Insight Timer app to listen to guided meditations or a simple timer bell. This transition from “home” mode to “work” mode became essential for my mindset. Trust me when I say, even just five minutes of quiet can do wonders.
Another practice worth trying is what I like to call a “shower pause” with an acronym that keeps me grounded. I brainstormed a simple setup to help remind myself to set an intention each day: ISS stands for Intention, Stretch, and Savor (and yes, it could also look like “is”). While shampooing my hair or letting the water cascade down my back, I set a daily intention, do some quick stretches, and truly savor the simple pleasure that my shower offers. This little routine works wonders in recalibrating my mindset and can easily become second nature even after your baby arrives.
If you’re feeling like you need a little more support in this area, you’re not alone. I’ve created a short course on Insight Timer called Mindful Preparation for Parental Leave. This six-session course dives into everything from emotional preparation and enhancing your confidence to tips on building a network of fellow parents who understand exactly what you’re navigating.
The course costs $9.99 per month through the Insight Timer MemberPlus subscription, which gives you access to all courses on the platform. I’ve found incredible value in courses led by Tara Brach and Reuben Lowe, and there’s a communal space attached to my course, where I’m actively responding to questions and comments from participants.
So take a deep breath and know this: you’ve got this, mama. You’ve accomplished significant feats before, and you’re more than equipped to manage the planning phase of your leave, too. A supportive community of working parents stands ready to cheer you on and share in the journey ahead. You’re not alone, and all those emotions, from anxiety to excitement, are part of the beautiful path of motherhood.
Image Source: ANNA GRANT / Shutterstock
