Now that you’ve returned from the hospital, you and the child you created are on your own to navigate daily life for the next three months (or as long you decide to take). Yes, it’s frightening, but there are a few ways to make the most of your time off:
Log off of the workplace!
It’s possible that this is the only time in your life when you are permitted to completely unplug. So go ahead and do it. Even if you have to manually erase business email from your phone’s settings or temporarily turn off your work phone
Rest
I know it sounds cliche but your selfcare is especially important in this phase. Get as much rest as you can, virtually everything( including the unwashed dishes and clothes) can wait
Get domestic help
A nearby relative or friend who can drop by frequently to keep you company, hold the baby, or assist with tiny tasks is just as great as domestic help (where unavailable)
Minimize visitors
If there’s ever a time to be selfish, this is it.
You’ve got the best excuse in the world: An unpredictable baby. No one can challenge that.
Prepare for resumption
It is recommended that you take a day out of your maternity leave (ideally toward the end) to give things a test run. Test your breast pump, new caretaker, daycare, etc to ensure everything works according to plan