Working Girl... With a Baby

You’re being asked to choose between your baby and your career. (Not really, but that’s what going back to work feels like to many new mothers.)

The decision to return to work after having a baby can be distressing: You may have mixed emotions about leaving your child, either dismayed that the bonding process may be interrupted or guiltily happy to return to your professional life—or some combination of the two.

As you embark on this stressful life change, remember that your are not alone. Of the 80.5 million mothers in America, only 5.6 million identify themselves as stay-at-home mothers, according to the latest statistics issued by the U.S. Census Bureau. In addition, 55 percent of women who gave birth to their first child returned to work within four months. Take comfort in these numbers and get ready for a new transition!

Over the next 30 days, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to keep all balls in the air during this juggling act. Experts and other working moms will offer their wisdom and inspiration on what it takes to complete this transition successfully. You will learn tips on how to cope with your feelings, stay connected to your child, communicate with your caregiver and negotiate a manageable work schedule, as well as how to take care of your body and mind.

For the moment, perhaps your biggest concern might be how you may feel on your first day back at the office. Some mothers expect to feel guilty, but experience relief. Others think it will be a breeze but spend the day sobbing. Acknowledge your emotions: If that means releasing them through tears, take a few moments alone in your office to cry. Feel supported knowing that your fellow working mothers understand what you are going through.