Show notes
What up! In this episode, I share what I'm coining as my "work report card!" A new series where I share how the journey back to work after maternity leave is going.Tune in to explore the emotional, physical, and environmental challenges I faced. Plus, my insights on the key areas that companies, managers, and coworkers forget about moms returning to the workplace.If you are a mom returning to work, thinking about it, planning for it, or in the thick of it - I SEE YOU. YOU ARE NOT MISUNDERSTOOD HERE. And I am ROOTING FOR YOU w/ ALL MY HEART. Yes, all caps are necessary!Highlights:The emotional and physical impact of separation from your babyEnvironmental changes and discomfort in the workplaceIdentity shifts and personal transformation post-maternity leaveThe importance of support and understanding from colleagues and managersResearch on skills gained from motherhood that benefit workThe experience of feeling out of place and the time warp effectThe significance of community and shared experiences in motherhoodEpisode sound bites:Returning to work after maternity leave is an ongoing, evolving process.Support from colleagues and managers is crucial for a smooth transition.Motherhood brings significant identity shifts that are often unseen.Physical separation from the child can be emotionally and physically taxing.Research shows moms return with enhanced operational skills.Sharing experiences helps reduce feelings of isolation and guilt.Preparation, support, and understanding can ease the return process.Chapters00:00 Introduction and overview of the return to work journey01:54 The emotional and physical impact of separation from the child04:10 Research on skills moms gain from maternity leave06:04 Environmental challenges and discomfort in the workplace07:56 Identity changes and personal transformation09:46 Mom guilt, anxiety, and the pressure to perform12:03 The experience of feeling out of place and the time warp effect13:57 Strategies for managing the return and seeking support16:13 The importance of community and shared experiences18:05 Reflections on the journey and future outlookIf this interests you, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/National Working Mother's Week, learn more and register (Sept 21 - 25): https://www.motheredmedia.com/national-working-motherhood-weekMy books:Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/