When you have a new baby, your life changes in numerous ways, one of which may be an identity shift that extends to how you feel about your professional life. Reevaluating your career postpartum is a healthy process that can ensure your long-term happiness and success.
The Post-Baby Reality Check
A new baby brings joy and challenges. When returning to work, 91% of working mothers experience at least one major challenge. Common logistical concerns include the cost of child care and inflexible work schedules. You will likely also have new personal priorities related to your well-being:
- Physical: New mothers should value rest, nutrition, hydration and hygiene, both for themselves and for their baby.
- Mental: Taking care of your mental well-being and participating in activities you enjoy can help reduce symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety, which is experienced by one in seven new mothers.
- Social: It’s beneficial to spend ample time bonding with your new baby and partner, and to have a solid support system.
Balancing these new needs with existing professional demands can be a challenge. When your career is at odds with your physical, mental and social well-being, it's a signal that something needs to change.
4 Signs Your Career Needs a Readjustment
When assessing new priorities and challenges, you may realize that your current job is no longer serving you. Here are the signs to watch for.
1. Your Priorities Have Fundamentally Changed
With a new baby in the house, you may desire a better work-life balance. This might include finding a job with more hourly flexibility or one that offers a stronger sense of purpose. Work shouldn’t keep you from being there for your growing baby’s special moments or leave you feeling unsatisfied.
2. You Dread the Workday More Than Ever
While it’s normal to sometimes feel unmotivated about work, an ongoing sense of anxiety or unhappiness about the job itself can indicate that a career adjustment is necessary. Strong emotional health can foster resilience to stress, deeper relationships, higher self-esteem and increased energy. If your current career doesn’t enhance your well-being, you may need to look elsewhere.
3. The Logistics Simply Don’t Work
An inflexible work schedule, a long commute or an unsupportive company culture can make returning to your job more challenging while juggling other needs. For example, babies have six pediatric primary care visits within their first year, and many new mothers have ongoing checkups with their OB/GYN. These require time and energy, which your current career may be depleting.
4. You’re Constantly Daydreaming About a Different Path
A role or career switch may sound appealing after having a baby. After bringing new life to the world, you may ponder the life you want for yourself. You're not alone in thinking about a change — in 2023, around half of American employees considered changing career paths. You have the opportunity to seek a position that more closely aligns with your new priorities or goals. Switching careers is common, considering that adults typically have an average of 12 jobs by the time they’re 55.
Thoughtfully Exploring Your Career Options
It’s normal for a career change to feel overwhelming, especially for a new mother. The key is understanding your long-term professional goals and aligning them with your new reality and aspirations.
To get started with a job change, brainstorm industries that align with your interests and skills. Next, connect with individuals in your desired industry to gain a better understanding of the role that best suits you. Set realistic goals, such as pursuing educational opportunities and developing your professional skills. These can make you more appealing to employers and give you the confidence and knowledge required for a new job.
Career adjustments don’t happen overnight. On average, individuals spend 11 months considering a career change before actually making it. An intentional transition can take anywhere from a few months to a few years, and it will likely take longer if it involves preparing for a new industry or profession. Whatever your goals, carefully research your options and create a manageable timeline.
Seek Success on Your Own Terms
Ambitions and needs evolve, so you may need to reassess your career after having a new baby. By considering your needs and exploring your options, you can move forward into a professional life that better complements motherhood.
ABOUT OUR CONTRIBUTOR:
Mia Barnes is a professional freelance writer and the Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind. She has over 5+ years of experience researching and writing about family health and postpartum wellness. When she isn't writing, you can find Mia walking her dog or trying new recipes.
