As mothers we are biologically programmed to take care of the needs of everyone in the family. But we need to make space for taking good care of ourselves too. This starts with assuring our basic needs are met everyday.

A thirty hour work week would enable more moms to be fully present at work and also present at home for their families. So much happens in the family on the bookends of the workday. Employers can help working moms be successful by offering this work schedule.

Fully absorbing that you now bear the label “mom” in addition to all the other roles you play in your life can take a while to feel like it’s really you. A step by step plan can help you integrate your role as mom with your professional self as you return to work.

Moms who are returning to work often have a range of emotions. The transition back to work often occurs during the postpartum and while moms are still breastfeeding. Struggles with feelings of guilt and perfectionism can also contribute to a mixture of emotions.

There’s lots to consider when you are going back to work after having a baby. Following a step-by-step plan and joining a community of new moms can help you return to work successfully.