As we prepare for motherhood or continue the journey, trying to have it all together can feel nearly impossible. Feelings of doubt, guilt, or pressure to go harder can start to brew inside until a breaking point is reached. So how can we better prepare for life (and work) after birth? This episode Yamel Belen is joined by Raena Boston, mother of three, HR pro, writer & Co-Founder, to discuss the ways in which moms can plan for work leave after birth.
Raena Boston is the founder of The Working Momtras, a community designed to help empower moms to resign from ‘doing it all’ and release themselves from the shackles of mom guilt, guiding moms toward becoming more of who they already are. You can follow her on instagram and learn more about her work with Chamber of Mothers.
Keep in touch and in the loop with Yamel on Instagram,TikTok & YouTube.
Often as women (especially mothers) there is an unsaid feeling of expectation to do it all. Raena Boston shares, “As a woman, partner, full-time employee, and mother, what you’re capable of is enough! Why do you have to have it all?” Doing it all looks different for everyone, so focus on what matters to you and your family, and leave the internal battle behind.
Have Grace For One Another
We often view others' choices as a statement about our own. As moms, some days are great while others are chaotic, but we deserve grace. The pressure to be perfect comes from institutions that benefit from mothers feeling unsupported. When we turn that frustration towards one another, we lose sight of the real problem.
Preparing for Leave
Many mothers work until the end of pregnancy, fearing time away from their baby. To prepare, talk to HR, research your options, and see if you qualify for the FMLA. Understand your legal protections and your company's benefits to create a game-plan for peace of mind. If possible, see if your partner can take paid leave with you.
Returning to Work
Consider a phased return, working half-time while being paid in full, to ease back into the routine. Work with HR to create an individualized strategy and don't be afraid to ask for what you need. Familiarize yourself with workplace accommodations for breastfeeding and ensure you have time to do so in your schedule.
Don't let mom guilt bring you down. It's normal to feel unsure about returning to work, but remember that it's a universal experience. Reflect on whether your guilt stems from internal or external pressure and consider making adjustments to your work day if needed. Give yourself grace and never hesitate to ask for support.
Keep in touch and in the loop with Yamel on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
