Reclaim Your Confidence: A Smart Plan for Your First 90 Days Back at Work
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:
Detail your success vision (ideally, before you start back).
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.
Success Vision: What Does Success Look Like for You Now?
Before you return to work, take time to articulate your success vision. This isn’t just about career goals—it’s about seeing the bigger picture: your career, your family life, and yourself. How do these three areas need to coexist to create a sense of fulfillment and balance? This success vision will serve as your north star throughout your transition, giving you something to anchor to when things feel overwhelming.
Success Vision Activity:
Draw Three Circles: Career, Family, and Self. These represent the core areas of your life. Think about the energy, time, and focus you gave to each area before going on maternity leave.
Before Leave: In one color, draw the size of each circle as it was before your leave. Was your career circle larger? Did family or self-care take more space? Reflect on how you felt about each area at the time.
After Leave: Now, in a different color, draw the circles again reflecting how they look now. Has your career circle shrunk, or is it stronger? Has your family circle expanded, or has your self-care circle grown?
Overlay: Place both sets of circles on top of each other. What do you notice? Where is there imbalance? This gives you clarity on how your priorities have shifted and where you need to focus your time and energy moving forward.
Your 90-Day Roadmap: 3 Sprints to Success
With your success vision in hand, it’s time to dive into the practical side of things. The first 90 days are all about adjusting, adapting, and owning your impact. I’ve broken it down into 3 simple sprints that will set you up for success.
-
Focus: Mindset, Boundaries, and Self-Care
In the first 30 days, it’s all about getting grounded in your new reality. You’ve changed, and so has the business. It’s time to give yourself grace, set intentional boundaries, and protect your self-care.
This sprint is all about adjusting your mindset—you’re not just going back to work, you’re stepping into a new version of yourself. Set clear boundaries with your team and family, communicate your needs, and reestablish your work-life balance. text goes here -
Focus: Observing Changes and Aligning Priorities
Now that you’ve settled into your routine, it’s time to observe the changes around you. Take the time to absorb the shifts in the company, team dynamics, and role. You’ve been away for a while—what’s changed in your work environment?
Align your priorities across career, family, and self. This is where you start adjusting to new expectations and recalibrating your time. Stay flexible and take things one step at a time. -
Focus: Leading with Confidence and Influence
By now, you should feel more confident and clear on your boundaries. Sprint 3 is all about owning your impact. This is where you start leading with confidence, influencing your team, and making your mark.
You’ve observed, adapted, and now it’s time to step into your leadership role. Lead with intention and purpose, and maintain momentum without overextending yourself. Keep revisiting your success vision to ensure your actions align with your long-term goals. text goes here
Why This Works:
This simple 1-2-3 sprint roadmap helps you ease back into work without feeling overwhelmed. By breaking the transition down into manageable steps, you can adapt gradually and build confidence as you go. You don’t have to be perfect—just consistent and intentional.
Ready to Implement Your 90-Day Success Plan?
Do you want tailored support to implement this roadmap and ensure your success in the first 90 days?
If you're ready to reclaim your confidence, own your impact, and thrive both personally and professionally, get in touch today. I’d love to work with you to create a customised plan that aligns with your new phase of life and career.
Click here to learn more or send me a message to get started.