By Vanessa Jupe, CEO of Leva

Let's be honest, the transition back to work after having a baby can feel utterly overwhelming. It's completely normal to experience a dip in motivation, fueled by a mix of exhaustion, hormonal changes, and the emotional (and physical) weight of juggling it all.

Confucius wisely said, "The [wo]man who moves mountains begins by carrying away small stones." In other words: baby steps, Mama! We've got your back with some tried-and-true tips to help you reignite your work spark:

1. Simon Sinek said it best: Find Your Why.  Are your work goals still fulfilling? Do they align with your passions and values? If not, it might be time for a little soul-searching. Maybe it's a career pivot, a new project, or simply a fresh perspective that'll get you excited to tackle your work again.

2. Create a Power Hour: Carve out a chunk of time each morning – even if it's just 30 minutes – to focus on your most important tasks. This dedicated time will build momentum and set a productive tone for the rest of your day.

3. Recharge Your Batteries: You're a super mom, a super professional, a super everything... but even Wonder Woman needs downtime. Prioritize self-care, whether it's  a relaxing bath, a walk, or a solo coffee date. When you're feeling refreshed, you'll be better equipped to take on your day.

4. Ask the Magic Questions: Feeling stuck? Try the 3 Cs of Motivation:

• Competence: "Am I good at this?"

• Control: "Do I have a say in how things are done?"

• Connection: "Does this task matter to me?

Answering these honestly can help you pinpoint what's draining your energy and find solutions.

1. Build Your Feel-Good Squad: We all need a little backup sometimes. Surround yourself with a supportive crew of friends, family, or colleagues who understand you. They'll celebrate your wins, commiserate over the tough days, and remind you that you're not alone in this. Importantly, being surrounded by positive people can make a huge difference. 

2. Just Do It (Even When You Don't Feel Like It): Motivation often follows action, not the other way around. So, even if you're not feeling 100%, try tackling one task you've been putting off. You might be surprised at how quickly you gain momentum.

3. Visualize Your Success: Close your eyes and picture yourself rocking that presentation, firing through your work or acing that meeting - see yourself  achieving your goals. This isn't just daydreaming; it's a powerful tool for rewiring your brain to believe in your capabilities. Trust us!

Bonus Tip: Before you head back to the office, schedule a meeting with your team and manager to get up to speed on what you've missed. Feeling prepared can boost your confidence and motivation.

Remember, this transition is a journey, not a sprint. Be kind to yourself, celebrate every small victory, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You've got this, mama!

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