I know when I was about to go on maternity leave I was a mix of emotions. I was looking for ideas, hints and tips on how to prepare both emotionally as well as physically for maternity leave. Needless to say I made it up as I went. I hope this episode with 12 tips to help you prepare for maternity leave helps you as I wish I had been given these tips before I went on leave.

Going on maternity leave is an emotional time. You have worked for a number of years, it has been a big part of your life working 40+ hours, 5 days a week and consuming much of your time. The prospect of maternity leave you will be stepping away for a period of time and handing over your work to another person can be difficult, you aren't alone if you are having trouble letting go. This period allows you time to reflect on your career so far and what you have enjoy and achieved so far. It also allows you time to consider the new challenge of motherhood and role as a parent. If you are a first time parent, there are many unknowns and the feeling of trepidation - this is entirely normal.

By having some time to stop and reflect on your maternity leave and how you would like it to work, will help both you and your employer so you can manage the leave period. It also allows you to process how you are feeling and if there are any areas that are causing you anxiety, speaking to someone prior to the birth would be recommended.

Enjoy this episode and best of luck with your upcoming birth and maternity leave.

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Until next time, have a great week.