Having a baby is a life-changing event, and it raises a lot of questions. In particular, the question of returning to work can bring practical and emotional difficulties that are rarely addressed by health professionals or antenatal classes.
And while many women cope well with returning to work, others suffer problems ranging from exhaustion, depression and loss of confidence, to relationship difficulties at home and at work.
Here are just some of the things that concern the women I coach:
• Apprehension at impending change (including labour and new baby)
• Fear of loss of identity and intellectual capability
• Emotional anxiety about separation from baby
• Losing confidence in professional ability
• Being seen differently (less important/effective/professional)
• Expectations of bosses and colleagues
• Timing and length of leave so as not to jeopardise career prospects
• Job options
• Childcare options
• Plans to return to work (or not)
• Lack of flexible working opportunities
• How to prepare a business case for flexible working
• Logistics of managing job and childcare
It’s not easy to talk about these things with your employer. But whether you’re returning to work, changing or role or thinking of leaving work altogether, you need to feel well informed, fully prepared and positive about the future.
Put yourself in the driving seat
That’s why more and more women are having maternity coaching. It gives you a much-needed opportunity to discuss your concerns, plans and options in confidence with a specialist, and to benefit from their expertise.
As a specialist independent maternity coach, I’ve helped numerous women to:
• Feel better prepared for the realities of new motherhood
• Be better informed on a wide variety of issues
• Explore all their working options
• Make a practical and effective plan for returning to work
• Regain confidence and control over their future
With so much to gain at this potentially difficult time, why not get in touch for a chat?
Vanessa Kingsmill Coaching 