The conversation about your value doesn't start when you walk back through those office doors. It starts with how you see yourself.
Redefining Your Value
After maternity leave, it's easy to feel like you've "fallen behind." Your colleagues have been working on projects, building relationships, maybe even getting promoted. Meanwhile, you've been focused on keeping a tiny human alive.
But here's the truth: You haven't fallen behind. You've been building a different—but equally valuable—set of skills.
What Motherhood Teaches You
Motherhood transforms you into a stronger, more resilient version of yourself through:
Newfound Multitasking Abilities
You've learned to manage multiple priorities simultaneously in ways you never imagined. That's a skill that transfers directly to the workplace.
Prioritization Skills
When you have limited time and energy, you learn quickly what really matters. This clarity is invaluable in any professional role.
Crisis Management
Babies throw curveballs constantly. You've become an expert at adapting to unexpected situations with grace.
Empathy and Leadership
Understanding what it means to be responsible for another person's wellbeing deepens your capacity for empathy and leadership.
Having the Conversation
When it's time to talk about your role, your responsibilities, or your compensation:
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Lead with confidence. You bring unique value to the table.
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Be specific about your contributions. Don't downplay what you've accomplished.
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Know what you want. Before the conversation, get clear on what success looks like for you.
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Remember: flexibility is a business decision, not a favor. Companies that support working parents see better retention and performance.
The Bottom Line
Your worth isn't diminished by becoming a mother. If anything, it's enhanced. The key is believing that yourself—and then helping others see it too.
You deserve to thrive in your career AND be present for your family. These aren't competing goals. They're complementary parts of a full life.