3 lessons I learned about change when my maternity leave ended
Universal truths about change, full stop.
I've recently returned to work following a year’s maternity leave.
This time of transition has taught me a few things I’m glad to be reminded of. If you’re similarly encountering a period of change in your career or life recently, I hope you find these thoughts useful.
Lesson #1. Perspective is a gift.
Returning to a job/project/place after a period of time can be disorientating. But it can also be a gift. The gift of fresh eyes - noticing what’s working well along with what, frankly, isn’t. After a year away from my own business, I’ve noticed things I’m not sure I would have done without a break. And that’s allowed me to tweak systems, change priorities and adapt.
Lesson #2. Lower the expectations
Things that used to take no time at all, seem to take longer. Or there are times my brain isn’t working quite as swiftly as before (ahem sleep deprivation!) Whilst the lack of sleep may be unique to a kid-related change, I think it’s important to acknowledge that whatever the circumstances of your period of transition in your career - it’s likely that there is emotion and intensity present. And that means you are expending energy simply when doing nothing! So take a breath, and be kind to yourself. (And yes, easier said than done depending on the day, I know.)
Lesson #3. Lean on others
To be candid, I’ve found the last couple months tricky. There have been challenges. Some days I’m able to adapt and other days I have to fight the urge to not throw in the towel because it seems too hard. But there’s magic in others - friends who’ve allowed me to unpack my thoughts, business buddies who’ve shared their own experiences and held space for me to share mine, and collaborators whose enthusiasm and energy rekindled my own when it was wavering.
Lesson #4 Ride the wave
Okay, so this is an extra lesson, but perhaps one that is embedded in the three above - and that is to remember that this is not a fixed in time, forever thing. It is change and change is hard. However, it isn’t always going to be this way so keep on riding the wave, one inhale and one exhale at a time. You’ve got this.
Wish you felt more calm & composed?
As a presentation skills coach, I believe connecting to your breath and body is the place to start. I created a free resource, guided audio exercise, The Ladder, which is PERFECT for those moments when calm & composure feel elusive. Access it here and invite more ease into your day.
