"The transition was daunting at first: emotionally, physically, and professionally challenging," remembers Sophia, a working mom of two. "But with the right support and mindset, I found a new rhythm that works for both my family and my career."

Returning to work after leave (especially parental leave) can be an emotional and logistical challenge. Whether you're nervous, excited, overwhelmed, or all three, know that you're not alone. Post-leave transition isn't just about resuming a job, it's about reshaping your daily life in a way that feels sustainable and empowering. 

Try these six tips to make your post-leave transition smoother, helping you thrive a work and at home. 

6 Tips to navigate the post-leave transition

1. Start slow: Reconnect before you dive in.

Instead of jumping straight back into your inbox, start by identifying top priorities and giving yourself time to get reacquainted. Set realistic expectations for both yourself and your team. You won't be able to catch up on everything in a day, and that's okay. Communicate openly with your manager and consider creating a short-term plan with clear and manageable goals.

Acknowledge that things at work may have changed while you were on leave—including new team members, projects, or workflows. Use the first couple of weeks to reconnect strategically: 

• Schedule one-on-one check ins with colleagues
• Plan casual team lunches or coffee chats
• Thank those who have supported your team during your absence. 

Reconnection is more than just catching up, it's about reestablishing trust, reaffirming relationships, and easing back into your role with clarity and confidence. 

2. Find your new normal at home and work.

Your daily schedule may look very different now with a new baby. If you are constantly running late or mornings start to feel chaotic, think about what you can do to make your morning routine a little easier. Try packing bags. laying out clothes, or meal-prepping breakfasts and lunches to help things run smoother in the mornings.

If your working hours have changed (going into office earlier and leaving earlier), be transparent and communicate your schedule and workload clearly to your team. And don't forget to coordinate with your co-parent or support system at home! Splitting responsibilities and checking in regularly helps keep everything and everyone on track.  

Be confident—but also, be kind to yourself. It’s completely normal to feel a little “off” as you step back into your professional role. You might even question your ability to handle both work and home, but those doubts don’t define your potential. Growth takes time, and confidence isn’t something you need to “snap back” into overnight. 

Practice self-compassion as you regain your rhythm. Give yourself credit for showing up, even when things feel uncertain. Look for those “quick wins”—small accomplishments or tasks that highlight your skills and strengths. These early accomplishments can help slowly rebuild your confidence. patience isn't a delay, it's just part of the process.

4. Advocate for what you want.

You've changed—and that's okay. Your career goals may look different now than they did pre-leave. Once you've settled back in, schedule a conversation with your manager to clarify your priorities going forward. 

What do you want at this point in your career? Communicate your interests, are you willing to take on more responsibilities? Or do you want to temporarily step back to find your footing? Frame the conversation around your strengths and long-term goals. Don't let assumptions limit your opportunities, especially if you're ready to take on more.

5. Prioritize yourself.

As you navigate this new phase, remember that it's okay if everything doesn't go perfectly right away. Stress and burnout often stems from unrealistic expectations and the belief that you need to always be available. Make time for yourself (even five minute breaks can help reset your energy) whether that's deep breathing, a quick walk, or just sitting in silence. 

Lean on your family and friends for support. And remember to set boundaries when you log off from work and ask for help when needed.

6. Embrace the best of both worlds.

Forget the perfect "balance". What parents actually need is enrichment—where energy, joy, and learning from one part of your life fuels the other. The goal isn't to do everything perfectly; it's to find meaning in both roles.

A meaningful work-life experience comes from presence, not perfection. Celebrate the fact that you're modeling resilience, flexibility, and ambition for your child—just by showing up. On harder days, think about the "why" in both work and parenting. Let go of perfection, it's your presence that matters most. 

With a new baby at home, the post-leave transition can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! These six tips are designed to help parents like you feel empowered, balanced, and supported, both at work and at home. Take some time to explore the different benefits Bright Horizons offers to support your wellbeing and help you manage both work and life with ease. 

Discover strategies for navigating your post-leave transition — from rebuilding confidence and managing new responsibilities to setting boundaries, addressing emotions, and finding balance as you return to work.