Returning to work after maternity leave can feel like stepping into an entirely new world. You've changed, your priorities have shifted, and the workplace has probably evolved too. The biggest mistake I see women make is trying to jump straight back into their role at the same pace and with the same mindset as when they left. That approach rarely works—because you’re not the same person anymore, and neither is your environment. But with the right strategy, you can ease back in with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

To ensure a smooth transition, there are two key things you need to do:

1. Detail your success vision (ideally, before you start back).

2. Follow my simple 1-2-3 sprint roadmap (put this in place from day one back on the job).

Let’s break these down and help you create a roadmap for success during your first 90 days back at work.

Returning to work after maternity leave is an emotional, physical, and mental transition—one that’s often filled with mixed emotions, from excitement to anxiety. Whether you're stepping back into your old role or preparing for a whole new dynamic, it’s natural to feel torn between your professional ambitions and the new reality of motherhood.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t about picking up where you left off. You are not the same person who went on leave. Your priorities, values, and even your approach to work have likely transformed, and that’s okay. In fact, it’s something you should embrace.

I know many women rush to prepare for the practical aspects—childcare, logistics, and schedules. But here’s the truth: The most important preparations for your return to work go beyond the physical. It’s about a shift in mindset, boundaries, priorities, support systems, and making sure you’re truly ready for this next chapter.

Returning to work after maternity leave can feel like stepping into an entirely new world. You've changed, your priorities have shifted, and the workplace has probably evolved too. The biggest mistake I see women make is trying to jump straight back into their role at the same pace and with the same mindset as when they left. That approach rarely works—because you’re not the same person anymore, and neither is your environment. But with the right strategy, you can ease back in with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

To ensure a smooth transition, there are two key things you need to do:

1. Detail your success vision (ideally, before you start back).

2. Follow my simple 1-2-3 sprint roadmap (put this in place from day one back on the job).

Let’s break these down and help you create a roadmap for success during your first 90 days back at work.

As we step into 2025, many of us reflect on how we’ve navigated the balancing act between career, life, and self in the past year. The truth is, the line between work and personal life has blurred more than ever. While work-life integration offers a great deal of flexibility and freedom, it also opens the door to the trap of overwork. As women, we’re often caught in the juggle of multiple roles and responsibilities, and it’s easy to let ourselves become overwhelmed.

As we stand on the brink of a new year, contemplating the end of another chapter and the fresh beginnings that await us in 2025, I find myself reflecting on the common question that arises this time of year: “What are your New Year’s resolutions?”

Years ago, I decided to step away from the traditional notion of resolutions. Like many, I struggled to keep them, often feeling disheartened when I fell short of my goals. Instead, I shifted my focus to setting a theme for the year and establishing intentions. Why? Because it feels more achievable to commit to one overarching theme and set intentions that allow me to celebrate incremental changes, even if the full intention isn’t realized. This shift sets me up for a more positive and optimistic mindset as I embark on the new year.

One might say I was one of those natural-born leaders. The eldest of four children, I naturally found myself taking a leadership role at home from a young age. Growing up in a family that encouraged leadership—regardless of gender—was a gift. With strong role models like my father and grandmother, I learned early on that leadership wasn’t just about taking charge, it was about setting an example and empowering others.

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving workplace, the journey to career success can often feel like navigating a maze. For women, this path can come with unique challenges—whether it's breaking through glass ceilings, finding work-life balance, or building confidence in male-dominated industries. At SheLeads Mentorship & Coaching, we believe that no woman should have to walk this journey alone. That’s where mentorship comes in.

At SheLeads Coaching, our logo captures the essence of what it means to navigate the intricate balance of career, self, and life/family. These three circles represent the core aspects of a woman's journey, and as life unfolds, we often find these circles shifting in size and importance. Understanding this dynamic interplay is crucial for women as they strive to lead authentically, embracing the unique challenges and opportunities that come their way.

Discover Your Leadership Style and How to Grow It

In the world of leadership, just like in nature, different styles serve unique purposes and thrive in various environments. At SheLeads Coaching, we believe that understanding your leadership style can help you become a more effective and authentic leader. Inspired by the Harvard Business Review's six most common leadership styles, we’ve drawn playful parallels with animals to help you identify which style best represents you. By identifying your leadership animal, you can also discover areas for growth and improvement, moving toward a more balanced and impactful approach.