Should I work on Maternity Leave?

As a soon-to-be mom, the question of whether to work during maternity leave can be a constant source of contemplation. The answer, like most aspects of parenthood, is not one-size-fits-all.

So, let's get right into the delicate balance of embracing the joys of motherhood while maintaining a connection to the professional world.

Real quick...want the quick version? Head of to my YouTube Channel, where I answer the million-dollar question, “should I work on maternity leave?”

The "It Depends" Dilemma

I get this question all the time. And the short answer is it depends. Okay, I know what you are thinking, but hear me out...

When it comes to working during maternity leave, the answer isn't black or white. It truly is a spectrum, and it depends on your individual circumstances. If the idea of a three-month hiatus to savor the bliss of new motherhood appeals to you, embrace it wholeheartedly. If work is an integral part of your identity, hey, there's room for that too. In the modern era, the idea of maternity leave has evolved beyond a simple hiatus from work.

The goal is to find a rhythm that resonates with both the demands of motherhood and the desire to remain professionally engaged.

Overcoming Guilt and Striking a Balance

One of the biggest things that I hear from moms is that they feel guilty working on leave. They feel guilty that they really love their business, and that it makes them feel like themselves.

I am here to tell you that: you do not need to choose between your baby and your business. 

The struggle often lies in the guilt many mothers feel about working during this precious time. I remember that delicate balance like it was yesterday, and how important it was to prepare both: the business and the home front. The goal? To create an environment where you can engage with work intentionally, without feeling tethered or dragged in a direction you don't want to go.

 Strategic Thinking During Maternity Leave

I remember when I was pregnant with Jack, my second son, and I was preparing for maternity leave. I literally created the course curriculum for Master Maternity Leave, our core program. 

Drawing from my own personal experience, strategic thinking during maternity leave can be a game-changer. From creating course curriculums, to developing core frameworks for new products, the key is to find moments of creativity that align with your professional aspirations. 

Empowering Moments of Creativity

There is no reason why you can't create an opportunity for dad and baby to bond, or grandma or grandpa and baby to bond. Even if it is just for a few hours every single week. It's your maternity leave - you can redefine it and create it to be exactly what you are looking for.

My hope in helping generate systems for moms who are expecting is to create some intention behind what you're working on, when you're working on that, and really making sure that it's moving the needle for you. 

Let's not let a lack of control and anxiety overshadow the joys of motherhood. It's a sentiment many can relate to, but I encourage open communication with partners to navigate these tough waters. I cannot stress upon that enough. Communication is key.

By striking the right balance and creating intentional moments of professional engagement, you can make maternity leave a period of growth, both personally and professionally.

So, to all of the moms-to-be contemplating their maternity leave journey: embrace the uncertainty, communicate openly, and find the balance that works uniquely for you.

If you found this helpful - then you definitely are not going to want to miss my totally FREE Master Maternity Planning Guide. My (much needed) gift to you, mama. Support your business-owning mom friends and share it with them too! 

Your friend,
Alyson Caffrey