Your life has completely changed since the birth of your baby, and it will take some time to adjust to your new normal.
Your baby's wellbeing is now entirely dependent on you (or both you and your partner), and this may be one of the most significant responsibilities you've ever had. Fortunately, maternity leave gives you time to form a strong bond with your baby and meet their various needs while also navigating new motherhood.
But what happens after maternity leave? How can you best prepare for the end of your leave while remaining productive at work? Here are a few handy tips to help you overcome the dreaded Mom guilt and find a good balance between work and home.
Find a reliable helper/daycare
Start your search as early as possible. Conducting interviews, budgeting, and working out detailed plans and routines will help you figure out who is best to care for your baby. Ask friends and family for recommendations and always ask for references when interviewing. Once you’ve selected your caregiver, it’s a good idea to send them for a basic first aid course. You can also join while you’re at it. Or make sure the daycare workers are qualified in first aid.
Create a feeding plan
Will you be breastfeeding your baby full time or part time, or using formula? Choose one or incorporate all options. If you choose to breastfeed, you'll need to pump at work to keep your milk supply up and provide milk for your baby while you're away. Breastfeeding takes energy and calories, so make sure you’re eating nourishing meals and drinking enough water.
Make flexi-time work for you
Due to the pandemic, altered working practices are the new normal. Use the new schedules and the work-from-home option to enjoy quality time with your baby. Plan ahead and find the gaps in between your tasks and deadlines to sneak in time with your newborn.
Schedule self-care
It’s critical to prioritise your wellbeing as it has a significant impact on your child. Make time to relax, go on a walk, sip some tea, read a book, or catch up on a fave television show. It’s not selfish to make time for self-care – in fact, it helps you be a better mother!
Keep your house tidy
A cluttered home can have a negative impact on your mental health, and with a new baby, clutter is unavoidable. Keeping up with your chores may become even more difficult as you prepare to return to work. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. If you can afford to hire help once or twice a week, do so in order to make your life easier.
Good to know
Don't be hesitant to ask for help. You can't do it all by yourself. When you're still trying to find your feet, a strong support system is crucial. If you have a partner, share the household chores, and take turns caring for your baby so that you both get regular breaks.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme or using any medication.