Being on maternity leave is such a special time, one that goes by faster than you realize. For many, as they embark on this new chapter, disconnecting from work is the goal; for others, staying a little connected may help with their transition back.

For me, I knew I wanted a bit of both. I wanted to fully immerse myself in this new chapter of motherhood, but I also didn’t want to feel like a stranger to my team or organization. This allows me to maintain a sense of identity outside of motherhood and keeps me tethered to the professional world I love. It also helps me feel more confident about the transition back, knowing I haven’t completely stepped away from the conversations and ideas that fuel my work.

And so, I’ve shared a quick check-in here and there with my team and thought or two (or more) here on LinkedIn.

These small interactions help stretch the parts of my brain I know I’ll need when I’m back but also offer a way for me to keep learning from afar, even in small doses.

For many, completely disconnecting during maternity leave may be the right choice—and that’s okay too. Stepping away entirely can provide the space to fully focus on this new chapter, recharge, and return feeling ready to dive back in. Everyone’s approach to this time is deeply personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Ultimately, this approach works for me because it feels balanced. It allows me to honour this precious time at home while also keeping a finger on the pulse of my professional life. Whether someone chooses to disconnect entirely or stay a bit engaged, what matters is finding what feels right for you.