Working moms have always had two full-time jobs — being a mom and working their job. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shook up the lives of working moms in a unique way, forcing many moms to care for their children and continue working from the same location: home.
In the years since, the definition of “working mom” has expanded even more. Many mothers now navigate hybrid arrangements, balancing days in the office with days at home, and juggling childcare, housework, and professional responsibilities all within the same week.
There are so many reasons why a mom might want or need to head back to the office, including previously working part-time, being a stay-at-home mom, or something more personal. It seems like it should be straightforward, but if it’s been a while, it may not be. There are bound to be new changes that require a bit of flexibility. But, with the right know-how, preparation, and perspective, moms returning to work can rock this new season.
The good news is that more employers today are recognizing the unique challenges working moms face and are offering improved benefits like flexible hours, remote options, and family leave policies. These changes make the transition smoother and more sustainable than in years past.
What to Expect When You Return
Moms returning to work will need to prepare for a new normal, both back in the office and at home. There are likely going to be office-wide adjustments and personal schedule changes that will require a bit of patience and adaptability as you make your way back into the workplace.
Working from home has offered the flexibility and freedom to manage your day in a way that works best for you. Returning to the office means you’ll generally have less flexibility and more structure than you may have had at home. You’ll have a more set schedule to adhere to, but you may also have fewer distractions as you get work done.
In hybrid or post-pandemic workplaces, many teams operate differently than before — you may find that some meetings are virtual, new digital tools are being used, or your coworkers’ schedules vary throughout the week. Getting familiar with these new systems early can help you feel more confident and connected.
Coming back into the office means showing up at a certain time and putting in a full workday before leaving. The return to this type of work schedule may also limit the amount of communication you can have with your family throughout the day.
Heading back to the workplace may be a challenge at first, but luckily, there are strategies to make the transition a little easier.
5 Strategies for Successfully Returning to Work
Returning to the workplace doesn’t have to be overwhelmingly difficult. By being proactive about childcare, creating a new daily routine, and having open conversations with your family and employer, you can help prepare yourself and everyone around you for your return to work.
Set Up Childcare in Advance
During your work-from-home season, your children likely got used to having you around all of the time. However, this reliance will have to shift as you make your way back to the office every day. That’s why securing child care in advance is key for moms returning to work. Select a child care facility or babysitter that fits with your new work schedule.
Be sure to tour multiple facilities, ask questions about safety and communication policies, and consider backup care options for sick days or school holidays. Knowing you have reliable support can relieve a major source of stress.
Create a Daily Routine
Be intentional about setting a daily routine for yourself and your family. Let your family know what your new schedule will look like and when they can expect you at home each day. Establish a new daily routine with your children, such as breakfast together before the babysitter arrives, to prepare them for the day ahead. Setting this schedule will also help you better adjust to a sleep schedule that gets you up in time to get ready and head for work.
Don’t forget to schedule time for yourself, too. Even small rituals — a short walk before work or reading with your kids after dinner — can provide grounding moments during this busy season.
Having a daily routine helps give everyone a sense of security, stability, and normalcy. It will also help you maintain a healthy work-life balance as you prioritize work and family.
Flex Your Schedule
Consider talking to your employer about easing back into the office with a flex schedule. Having a flex schedule can give moms returning to work more flexibility through the transition. It will also give everyone involved more time to adjust to the new normal. If possible, consider returning to the office a few days a week or for lessened hours each day until you and your family are prepared for a full-time return.
Many companies now offer hybrid schedules or compressed workweeks, allowing employees to finish their work in fewer days or to choose remote Fridays. Don’t hesitate to explore what arrangements might be available to you.
When discussing this option with your employer, be sure to emphasize your commitment to your role. Mention that you’ll still have the availability to work from home during the days or times you aren’t in the office, so that it won’t impact your quality of work. Additionally, put together a sample schedule to help your employer visualize what you’re asking for.
Offer Support and Patience
When you return to work, your entire family will need time to adjust. Everyone needs to be patient and supportive toward one another. The transition may be particularly difficult for your children, who may have grown used to having access to you throughout the day. Make sure they have everything they need to feel supported through the change.
Communicate openly about feelings and frustrations — both yours and theirs. Keeping these lines open helps prevent guilt and resentment while strengthening family teamwork.
Personalize Your Office
Your office is your home at work. So, why not make it feel like home? Decorate your office or cubicle in a way that makes you smile. Hang up photos of your family, display old gifts from your kids, or bring a collection of your favorite coffee mugs. On tough days, you can look around your office at all of the things and people that bring you joy.
Enjoy a Smooth Transition with BestCompaniesAZ
Moms ready to return to work may or may not want to come back to the same job. If you’re looking for a fresh start at a new job, BestCompaniesAZ can help.
With BestCompaniesAZ, you can learn more about some of Arizona’s Top Employers and understand their resources for working parents. If you’re considering relocating to Phoenix, you can also find moving resources and open positions at these companies on BestCompaniesAZ.com.
Explore BestCompaniesAZ’s top Arizona employers today to find your next dream job and make a smooth transition back into the office.
