My "back-to-work" journey as a second-time mum

Hui Xian, 36, made her way back to work recently in November 2024 after her maternity leave had ended. While this was her second time resuming corporate life after having a baby, she did have her share of worries about achieving that balance between work and family. Read on to find out how this mother of two managed the transition back to her job as a Visual Merchandising Senior Executive at FairPrice Group.

“Will my work performance be affected after being on maternity leave? What if I lose my edge?”

“As I was preparing to return to work, I wondered if I would struggle to meet work goals or to catch up with my team. However, on both counts, I found it to be more manageable and less overwhelming than I imagined.

Of course, with this being my second time returning from maternity leave, I did feel a little more prepared and confident as I was already familiar with my company’s supportive culture. This reassurance made the transition much smoother this time round. In addition, from the moment I stepped into the office, I found the same level of support from my managers and colleagues to help me ease back into work and pick things up again quickly.

I also realised that being a parent helped improve my time management, focus, adaptability and multitasking. These skills have given me an edge at work!”

“How will I balance work with caregiving when my child falls sick?”

“One of my biggest concerns was how I would manage work if any of my kids fell sick. I thought that juggling urgent deadlines and caregiving would be a logistical nightmare!

What eased my worries was knowing that my company offers flexible work arrangements (FWAs). This allows me to be there for my family when they need me, without compromising on my work commitments. For example, FairPrice Group’s hybrid work arrangement policy provides flexibility for office-based employees to work from home two days a week. This means I can tend to my children’s needs while ensuring that work is not neglected.”

“Will my colleagues and bosses understand my caregiving needs?”

“I did fret that being away from the workplace or needing greater flexibility would make me seem less committed compared to colleagues without kids. Thankfully, these concerns were quickly alleviated when I took the initiative to have an open conversation about possible FWAs with my reporting officer, who was not only understanding but supportive.

We worked out an arrangement together that allows me to manage childcare responsibilities and still stay on top of my work. In fact, I’d say this flexibility has helped me to work more efficiently, be more focused and deliver higher-quality work. So that’s a win for both my career and family.

I also realised that it's important to plan early and communicate openly with your employer to agree on an arrangement that works well for both sides. This will go a long way in making the transition to being a full-time working parent more manageable.”

“Will having two children mean I have to sacrifice my professional goals?”

“As my maternity leave was ending, I did think that being away from the office for so long and then having this new extra challenge of balancing work and a second child would slow my career progression.

Nonetheless, I feel that the joys and rewards of being there as a parent with my baby have outweighed these sacrifices. The precious time I got to spend with my newborn has strengthened our bond and brought me great fulfilment.

Of course, there was some catching up to do and extra effort needed at work when I returned to the office. At the same time, I found that being a parent has given me newfound perspectives and life lessons that allowed me to contribute at a deeper level. These days, I am more intentional with what I focus my time on and plan my day around my priorities. I set clear daily goals, stay proactive with my schedule, so as to ensure that I also have time for family.” 

“Is it possible for me to be a good mum despite my work commitments?”

"I also wasn’t sure if I would be able to leave work on time to be there for my kids while still meeting my bosses' expectations. I often wondered if I could strike that delicate balance – and it turns out that I can, with some adjustments.

There will always be busy days, but I’ve learned to make the moments I have with them count. These days, my older child waits up for me to finish work, just so that we can have some quality time together before bedtime. This can be through a short activity or by simply being present with each other. I also make it a point to be there when my children need me, and to communicate my love to them. This fills up their emotional 'love tank' and ensures that they feel secure and valued."

"Juggling work and family is not as bad as I thought.”

“Being a working parent does come with challenges and issues. It takes constant adjustment. Some days are harder than others, but it’s not impossible with the right mindset and support from your family and employer.

I’m also heartened that there have been more efforts to encourage work-life integration. For example, the Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangement Requests (TG-FWAR) which took effect in December 2024, will provide parents with assurance that there is support to balance family life, career progression and personal well-being.

To me, this is empowering. It means that, as a nation, we are taking positive steps to create work environments where parents can excel in their careers while remaining actively involved in their families’ lives. These FWA guidelines will go a long way to boost the morale of working parents, reduce burnout and enhance overall productivity.

So here’s my advice to all new mums who worry about going back to work or are currently struggling with the transition: take a proactive approach to start a discussion with your supervisor if you need some flexibility to be there for your family. As a parent, it’s important that you recognise your value at work and at home.”

Published in Jan 2025