In this article:
Let's examine the 10 most difficult aspects of maternity leave and provide helpful guidance on how to respond gracefully and resiliently in each circumstance.
Looking At The Clock
Standard maternity leave is just 26 weeks long for the first and second child and 12 weeks for the third and subsequent, and you'll be frequently reminded of how short it is. Instead of stressing about how few days of freedom you have, concentrate on living in the present. While you're enjoying extra cuddling time with your child, you may also start thinking about a new job.Trying To Fit Too Much In
Many mothers have big ideas for their maternity leave, such as scrapbooking, and organising their wardrobes etc., however, there are many other added elements to look forward to, like postpartum discomfort, the baby blues (aka the hormonal roller-coaster journey of motherhood), weariness, and the tiny, vulnerable infant that you're suddenly responsible for round the clock. Now is the time to get to know and cherish your child. "Everything else can wait." Don't get stressed about the other things. Being Concerned About What Is Going On At Work (or the fact that you are not there)
Like it or not, our occupations often define us — or, at the very least, get inside our brains. Are you being missed? Will everything be in ruins when you return? But keep in mind that you'll most likely be able to put things in better perspective shortly. Feeling Concerned About Missing Milestones
Many mothers hold their breath, waiting for the first smile, roll over, laugh, clap, or simply a glimpse of awareness. However, it does not happen immediately — and the realisation that you may miss many of these milestones when you return to work may be upsetting.Trying To Fit Into Your Previous Work Attire
Okay, you're strolling around your home in sweatpants and nursing blouses, but you'll need to fit into anything reasonably professional in a couple of weeks, and your maternity attire won't cut it. Embrace how your body has changed and it may be a great option to go shopping!Envy Your Partner
Your partner wakes up, showers, dresses, and then departs! They may be the most engaged, supporting partner in the world, but they may not be that connected to a baby. Their body belongs to them alone, and they are free to do anything they want whenever they wish. You, on the other hand, have difficulty leaving your child and have a quick shower. Although you may occasionally envy the freedom your partner seems to take for granted, you probably wouldn't trade places with them for anything in the world.If you are a single parent, you may feel envious of your friends or feel disconnected from the world while caring for your baby.
Feeling Isolated
Here's a nasty little secret: Raising babies may get monotonous. Even if your job requires you to hustle all day, you'll be happier if you get some adult interaction and a change of scenery now and again. So, ensure, you take a power walk or go for a coffee with a friend. Don't have someone to call? Join a local moms' support group or playgroup.Worrying About Childcare
You created this wonderful, magnificent creature, and now you must pass it over to a stranger, trusting that they would love and protect it as you do. After you've done your due research — receiving referrals, visiting child care centres, and doing nanny background checks — the only option is to trust and let go.Not Being Able To Tell Where Time Passes
Feed, sleep, repeat—that's your new world. New-mommy days tend to blend, and when your partner or family member asks, "What did you do today?" It might be difficult to respond. Everything is fresh, and that time-warp sense is genuine and part of the transition process.Embracing Chaos
You know what's required of you at work, and you're presumably fairly good at those responsibilities; otherwise, you wouldn't be there. Being a mother is not that simple – there is no job description, to-do list, or performance assessment — and there is certainly no clocking off at 5 p.m. It is difficult to flourish when you are just striving to survive. Know that it's entirely okay and normal if you haven't bathed, your bed isn't made, and you're ordering pizza for dinner again. Normality will arrive later. Right now, it's alright to simply stumble through and do your best.
FAQs on The 10 most difficult things about maternity leave and how to deal with them?
- What are the issues around maternity leave?
Inadequate maternity leave may cause not just anxiety and despair, but also relationship problems and an inability to return to work. - How to deal with the end of maternity leave?
If things get too stressful, don't be hesitant to seek help. When things seem overwhelming, depend on others around you, whether they be family, friends, or counsellors. It may seem that other mothers are having an easy time, yet they are most likely experiencing identical struggles and feelings.
