A Guide to Planning Your Maternity Leave

A Guide to Planning Your Maternity LeaveA Guide to Planning Your Maternity Leave01Understand Your Rights and BenefitsKlaus Vedfelt / Getty ImagesIn the final weeks before your leave begins, wrap up your remaining projects. Write any instructions or memos that colleagues will need to fill in while youre out of the office. Its smart to finish the top priority items first, since babies have been known to arrive ahead of schedule. Next, set the stage for your return to work.Set Up an Out of Office MessageBefore your maternity leave, set up an out of office message.To help keep your inbox clean unsubscribe from any regular newsletters or e-mail lists that youre on. Make sure to keep notes, so you can re-subscribe when you come back to work.How to Write a Resignation Letter After Maternity LeaveIf you have a change of heart while on maternity leave, write a resignation letter that is professional and in keeping with your companys policies. Make sure you understand whether youll be expected to repay any paid leave that you took. (When in doubt, consult an employment lawyer.)The Essentials for Returning to WorkAs your maternity leave draws to an end, youll want to follow a checklist to smooth your path back to the office. From emergency child care to the baby gear youll need, here are the essentials for returning to work.Surviving the First Week BackThe first week back is often the toughest. Dont worry, youll make it through with these tips.How to Find Work-Life BalanceOnce youre an official working mom, youll understand why all your friends complain about work-life balance. Heres the first secret you need to know about work-life balance.Updated by Elizabeth McGrory