Originally published on October 12, 2021 by Vital Physiotherapy & Wellness, now part of the Bravella Health network. Original author: Vital Team.
“The days are long, but the years are short,” is what I heard from every parent I spoke to before becoming a parent myself. Although I didn’t believe it at the time, here I am using it as the first sentence of this blog ! Oh, the irony! Whether it’s been years, months, weeks or just days of parental leave, time somehow flies by, and just like “that”(cue finger snap) the return to work process begins. This can bring about so many mixed emotions, because it is a big change. After going through the process and having been back at work for 3 months now, here are a few tips that I found helpful in my journey, and hoping it can help you too!
1. Feel All The Feels
Returning to work post parental leave can be an overwhelming experience, filled with so many emotions. Whether it be excitement, fear, happiness, worry, guilt or relief – or if you’re anything like me, ALL of the above and more – it is a big change. Going from spending hours on end with your little one, singing nursery rhymes on repeat and maybe having very little adult interaction, and then suddenly having to switch gears into a role you know so well, but are so far removed from; that is challenging. So take a pause, find a way that works for you to feel all the feels and reflect on how your mind and body are reacting to those feelings. Tell yourself that it is OK and natural to feel everything and anything, or nothing! Acknowledging how you feel is an important step to help you navigate this change in your life. Every experience is different, and understanding your own will help you take control of the situation!
2. Practice Makes Perfect Better
Ever heard of neuroplasticity? It refers to the ability of the brain to modify its connections, reorganize or ‘rewire’ itself. You may have heard the saying, “Neurons that fire together, wire together”, meaning the more you stimulate an action or thought, the stronger and more efficient it becomes.[1,2] We can use this phenomenon of rewiring the brain to prepare for that first day of work. Waking up at the right time, getting ready, setting up your computer, driving to work or setting up your home office space, and even little things like remembering how to blur your Zoom background (for all those work-from-home folks!) can make a huge difference in preparing your body and mind for the transition. So have a practice day, or practice days, to make the transition that much more smooth!
3. Talk It Out
Sometimes we underestimate the importance of communication. Plans can sometimes seem clear in our own minds, but without communication, the people around us may have no idea of what’s going on. Talking it out is key. Start with your support circle. Ensure everyone knows your plan and knows how they can support you. Next is your workspace. Talk to your boss or supervisor. Be clear on where you are at, your transition process, timeline and responsibilities. When you’re open and honest, and when everyone around you is on the same page, everything seems to work out that much better. In the end, the people in our lives are there to support us – we just need to make sure we tell them how!
If you’re returning to work anytime soon, hope the tips above help! We’re rooting for you! Now let’s watch you rock that first day!
You’ve got this,
References
- Hebb DO. The Organization of Behavior: A Neuropsychological Theory. Wiley; 1949.
- Shatz CJ. The developing brain. Sci Am. 1992;267(3):60-67. doi:10.1038/scientificamerican0992-60
Let’s Book Your First Appointment
You can relax knowing that you have options. Instead, you can stop feeling like it is your fault and get ready for a life-changing experience.
