Maternity Leave without the Labor Pains
Your coworkers have just given you a fabulous baby shower, and you only have a few more weeks before your due date. Your baby bags are packed, yet you still haven’t decided whether the departure from your job will be temporary or permanent. For many women, fulfilling the dream of motherhood also means that they may have to put their career dreams on hold for a while. It’s a decision that comes easily for some. For others, it’s a long, winding journey filled with questions and concerns, such as:
- Does the family need the income that your current job provides? If so, is there a way to produce sufficient income from home?
- How would the decision to stay at home affect the family as a whole?
- Will remaining home provide a greater sense of fulfillment than the career?
- What is a realistic time frame for remaining at home? Six weeks, six months or six years?
- Is home-schooling an option?
The increased cost of childcare prompts many mothers to remain at home with their children. Because daycare demands the majority of their income, many working moms surmise that the family is already practically living on one income. One mom states, “It was like I was working to pay for daycare. With a few adjustments, we were able to manage on my husband’s income.” Regardless the reason, if becoming a stay-at-home parent is right for you, here are some tips to help make the transition to and from the workforce a smooth one:
- Take baby steps. Sometimes leaving the workforce can be done in phases. Start by working a flexible schedule with some days in the office and some days from home. Working a part-time schedule might also be an option.
- It takes a village to raise a child. Be sure there is a sufficient network to provide guidance, assistance and resources. Connect with other stay-at-home moms and support groups.
- Give yourself a break. It’s been said, “If Momma isn’t happy, nobody is happy!” Be sure to schedule time for relaxation, pampering or quiet time just for you. Refueling your engines will help keep the entire family running smoothly.
- Stay plugged into your career network. Keeping in contact with friends and coworkers not only provides a social outlet, it also keeps the door open for future career moves. People in your professional network will know where career opportunities exist when you are ready to return to the workforce and can also provide references. Often times, who we know can make the difference.
Transitioning from working outside the home to a stay-at-home mom can be daunting, but for many women the benefits are better than any they could have received on the job.
This article is brought to you by Corner Stork Baby Gifts offering hundreds of baby shower party favors and unique baby gifts. Visit them online at http://www.cornerstorkbabygifts.com. Author: Karen Sullen