Introduction
However long you’ve had away from work whilst you tended to the beautiful, yet demanding new addition to your family, returning to work after maternity leave can feel like stepping back into uncharted territory. For many mums, the process is accompanied by a heady mix of emotions—excitement, uncertainty, and even self-doubt. Questions about juggling work and family life or regaining a lost confidence often loom large.
This transition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Career confidence coaching tailored specifically for working mums provides personalised guidance to navigate this period with clarity and confidence. Through a supportive and strategic approach, coaching equips mums with tools to rebuild their self-assurance, set achievable goals, and create a sustainable work-life balance. It’s not just about returning to work—it’s about thriving in both your professional and personal life.
The Challenges of Returning to Work After Maternity Leave
Returning to work after maternity leave presents some unique challenges, but for many mums, the biggest hurdle is that of rebuilding confidence. Time away from the workplace can create feelings of self-doubt or fear of being left behind in a fast-paced industry. The lingering question of “Am I still capable?” is one that many women face during this transition.
On top of this, managing time becomes a significant concern. Between late-night feedings, childcare drop-offs, and work deadlines, it can feel like there simply aren’t enough hours in the day. Balancing these responsibilities while trying to excel professionally is no small feat.
Emotionally, mums often wrestle with guilt—whether it’s guilt about leaving their child in day-care or guilt about not being able to give their all at work. Practical challenges, such as adjusting to a new routine or catching up with industry changes, only add to the pressure.
TENA surveyed 1,000 mothers to get to the bottom of going back to work after giving birth and found that it takes new mums nearly six months to readjust after going back to work – with nearly a quarter saying the workplace is “completely different”. The survey uncovered how women experience feelings of isolation due to a lack of understanding from those who don’t have children and a sense of no longer belonging after an extended period of time out.
This is where confidence coaching for working mums comes in—providing guidance and support through these challenges and the clarity and confidence to face them head-on.
What is Coaching for Mums Returning to Work?
Career Confidence Coaching for mums returning to work is a specialised service designed to address the unique challenges faced during this transitional period and support working mums to be and feel like the best version of themselves. It focuses on empowering women to regain their confidence, redefine their career goals, and create a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle.
The coaching process typically begins with understanding your current situation—your concerns, priorities, and goals. From there, Claire works with you to create a tailored plan that addresses both your personal and professional aspirations. Key areas of focus include:
- Rebuilding confidence: Helping you overcome feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt by highlighting your strengths and past achievements.
- Setting priorities: Clarifying what matters most to you, whether it’s advancing your career, spending quality time with your family, or both.
- Achieving personal & professional goals: Developing actionable steps to move forward with clarity and purpose in both your personal and professional life.
- Understanding your values and working on your vision: Knowing your values and having a vision for yourself, will keep you purposeful and productive and in alignment with who you are and where you want to go.
- Developing an ideal work-life balance: Creating a strategy for your work and home life blend that will suit your needs and needs of your family.
Coaching also provides practical tools for managing expectations—both your own and others’. Whether it’s learning to delegate tasks at home or setting boundaries at work, Claire’s one-to-one coaching equips you with strategies to find a sustainable balance.
Confidence Coaching with Claire will also help you to let go of the need to be perfect; find what works best for you; unlock your potential; and build a life that aligns with your vision and your values.
Benefits of Career Coaching for Mums
Career Confidence Coaching offers numerous benefits for mums returning to the workplace. Here are some of the key advantages:
Rebuild Confidence
It’s common to experience self-doubt after a career break, but coaching helps you shift your mindset. With techniques like affirmations and confidence-building exercises, coaching empowers you to overcome imposter syndrome and step back into the workplace with self-assurance.
Work-Life Balance Planning
Balancing work and family is no easy task, but coaching provides strategies to manage your time effectively. From prioritising tasks to establishing boundaries, you’ll learn how to create a balance or blend that works for your unique situation.
Set Achievable Career Goals
Whether you’re looking to re-enter your previous role or pivot to a new career, coaching helps you define clear, actionable goals. With a roadmap in place, you’ll feel more focused and motivated to achieve success.
Personal Growth
Through working on your inner-wellbeing – with a focus on growing in authenticity, self-trust and belief – you will begin to shine from the inside-out, with positivity, passion and purpose.
Professional Growth
Coaching isn’t just about surviving the transition—it’s about thriving. You’ll develop new skills, enhance your communication abilities, and gain insights that prepare you for long-term professional growth.
These benefits go beyond the workplace, creating positive ripple effects in your personal life and overall well-being.
How Coaching Supports Your Transition Back to Work
Career Confidence Coaching for mums is a highly personalised experience. Each one-to-one session is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you receive targeted support where you need it most. Here are some ways coaching facilitates your transition:
- Mindset Shifts: Coaching helps you reframe negative thoughts and build a positive, empowered mindset. Techniques like visualisation and gratitude exercises can reinforce your sense of capability and worth.
- Time Management Tools: From creating schedules to identifying priorities, coaching equips you with practical tools to manage your time efficiently.
- Confidence Exercises: Activities like role-playing, strength evaluations and self-reflection exercises boost your confidence, preparing you for challenges such as job interviews or performance reviews.
The flexibility of coaching—whether in-person or online – ensures that it fits seamlessly into your life. With Claire as your coach by your side, you’ll feel supported every step of the way.
Testimonials from Ambitious Mums
“I was at a crossroads with my career and keen to explore my options with someone outside of my usual network. Claire’s Escape and Explore session helped to relieve the overwhelm I was feeling and to open myself up to other options and opportunities beyond my original view. My time with Claire was positive, insightful and action-orientated and I would definitely recommend her!”
Susan, Mum & Marketing Consultant
Start Your Journey Back to Work!
Ready to embrace your return to work with confidence? It’s time to take the first step toward a fulfilling career and a balanced life. Coaching with Claire provides the tools and support you need to navigate this transition with clarity and self-assurance.
Don’t wait – empower yourself today. Schedule your free 30-minute discovery call with Claire to explore how coaching can transform your journey back to work. Take the leap and discover your potential!