Over the last few years, we have experienced an increase in remote work and many of us have opted to continue working remotely on a regular basis. While remote work can offer better flexibility and work-life balance, the transitions that come with becoming a parent aren’t exactly a piece of cake—no matter where you work from. Whether you’re a first-time parent or you’re adding another family member to the mix, transitioning from parental leave back to remote work can be challenging. Not only are you adding responsibilities to your personal life as a parent, but you’re also now balancing that with the demands of a full-time job. If not carefully managed, this can be a road to burnout—let’s not go there! Instead, here are a few tips to help manage the transition from paternal leave back to remote work:
Maintain Appropriate Boundaries
This goes for both work and home. For work, know and plan the hours you are going to work. Consider if flexible hours will work for you and figure out what that looks like ahead of time. When it’s not work time, turn off your computer and focus your attention elsewhere. Maintaining a schedule with your partner or family can be so important. Make it visible and known to all. Discussing and agreeing upon who will complete household tasks can keep all responsibilities from falling to one person and resentment from creeping in—communication is key, here!
Plan on Needing Help & Know Your Resources
This can be a tough one for those of us who like to get things done on our own, but having a new child can make things a bit more complicated. Relieve some of the stress that comes with this immeasurable responsibility by knowing your resources. Know which family members and friends can be there to offer help. Have a doctor established, as well as a plan on how you might seek therapy, if needed. Have a plan for childcare, as well as a plan for when they might have to stay home. Figure out how you prefer to deal with stress, anxiety, anger, and exhaustion—meditation? Alone time? Sleeping in? Establish your needs and communicate them with your people. Knowing ahead of time what resources you have can help significantly if things get difficult.
Connect with Your Colleagues
Even without parental leave, connecting with your colleagues in a remote environment can present challenges, especially if not everyone you work with is remote as well. While you’ll need to take time to come up to speed, reminding your team members and others you work with that you’re back is important. During team meetings, speak up! Share with others what you’re working on, and if there is something you feel lost about, be honest and ask questions. Most will understand your need for more information and will be willing to oblige. In addition, reach out to others for individual catch up chats. Keeping them short – 15 minutes or so—isn’t likely going to be met with negativity, and likely folks will be happy to welcome you back.
By Beth Fiset
Beth Fiset has been a proposal professional for four years in the accounting industry. She has worked remotely since March of 2020 and is mom to two of the best kids you could ever meet. She loves connecting with other proposal professionals on LinkedIn and definitely wants to hear all about your favorite novel.
