Being a mum is a full-time job in itself, so going back to work can be a tense & stressful juggling act for the whole family, not just for mum. It takes a great deal of support & understanding from family members to ease this difficult transition.

The most important factor that I have found is to be organized & prioritise. Preparing bottles, clothes and meals the night before even though all you really want to do is sit down, will save time & stress the following day. Having a set budget & bills arranged in due date order takes the worry out of keeping on top of finances.

Before you go back to work, do your sums and make sure it really is going to be worthwhile. Sometimes with the costs involved with childcare, transport to and from work as well as the wardrobe required, you are actually better off staying at home. So work out what will be best for you and your baby and most of all, don't feel guilty about whatever decision you finally make!
About the Author

As well as being a fulltime Mother, Monique is a partner in Bella Creations, an online gift shop specialising in unique gift arrangements & individual gift products for Men, Women & Babies. To view her gift range, log on at Baby Gifts Australia.