New Mum, Same Ambition: My Post-Maternity Comeback

Returning to work after maternity leave is a deeply personal journey—one filled with a wide range of emotions, shifting priorities, and new perspectives. We spoke with Kate, Head of Operations at The Equal Group, to hear how she’s managed the transition back to work after welcoming her baby girl in August 2024. Her reflections offer a thoughtful and encouraging perspective for any working parent preparing for a similar shift.

Meet Kate

Hi, I’m Kate, and I’ve been with TEG for five years now—my longest tenure at any company, which speaks volumes about how much I enjoy working here! I currently serve as Head of Operations, where I manage internal operations and support client projects through project management. I welcomed my daughter in August 2024, and she’s now seven months old and thriving.

Preparing to Return: How did you feel in the lead-up to returning to work, and what was it like walking back in on your first day?  

As my return to work approached, I was genuinely looking forward to it, although I did have some anxiety around whether I could pick things up where I left off. I remembered how I worked pre-baby and was keen to maintain that standard. Fortunately, my first day back was a smooth one—focused on reconnecting with the team and easing back into the workflow.

The Emotional Journey: What has the emotional journey been like during those first few weeks back at work?

Those first few weeks back were a mix of emotions. On one hand, I missed my baby, but on the other, I appreciated having a change of pace. Becoming a parent is a profound shift, and while I absolutely adore my daughter, having dedicated time for myself and my work brought a sense of balance I had been missing.

A Renewed Perspective on Work: How has becoming a mum changed how you feel about your work or career?  

Motherhood has deepened my appreciation for my career. Work now offers me a sense of accomplishment and mental stimulation—it’s time where I get to be creative, solve problems, and make an impact. That renewed perspective has been incredibly motivating.

Letting Go of Guilt: Have you experienced any guilt or inner conflict about being away from your baby?

One question I often get is whether I’ve experienced guilt about returning to work—and honestly, I haven’t. I don’t subscribe to the idea of “mum guilt.” My daughter spends her days with a childminder I fully trust. She’s socialising, learning, and hitting new milestones, and that gives me the peace of mind I need to focus during work hours.

Prioritising Well-Being: How do you take care of your own emotional well-being while balancing work and motherhood?  

Balancing work and parenthood requires intentional self-care. I’ve learned that I am responsible for my own well-being—I need to advocate for myself and create space for rest and recharge. Whether that’s taking a nap, getting my nails done, or simply having quiet time, I’ve made a habit of checking in with myself and responding to those needs without guilt.

Advice for New Mums Returning to Work: What do you wish you knew before returning to work—and what advice would you give to another first-time mum preparing for the same transition?  

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that our brains genuinely change after giving birth. You might find that you’re not operating at your usual pace right away—and that’s completely normal. Be patient with yourself. You’ll adjust, and with time, you’ll likely come back stronger and more focused than ever.

Another key takeaway: no one is coming to save you. While that may sound stark, it’s actually empowering. It’s a reminder that we have to take ownership of our needs, speak up, and ask for support when we need it. That self-advocacy benefits not only us, but everyone around us.

‍

Kate’s story is a powerful example of how returning to work after maternity leave doesn’t mean going back to “who you were”—it’s about stepping confidently into a new chapter, with clarity, purpose, and resilience.

If you're a parent preparing for your return to work, know that you’re not alone—and that there’s no one “right” way to do it. Be kind to yourself, ask for what you need, and trust that you're growing in more ways than one.

‍