Returning to work after a long break
Returning to work after a long break can feel huge — bigger than many women feel able to admit. It’s not just a practical shift; it’s emotional, identity‑shaping and often deeply vulnerable. Women step away from work for many reasons, and every one of them is valid. If you’re thinking about returning now, please know this: you’re not starting from scratch — you’re starting from experience.
If you are like me starting work in the first place is a big deal. I remember huge anxiety when starting work experience as a teenager. It wasn’t just emotional as it made me physically ill too. My next challenge was making telephone calls. We are human and we can find things challenging and that’s OK. The best things to do in such situations is to seek training or support but too many of us work that out later in life.
Why Returning to Work After a Long Break Feels So Big
When you’ve been out of the workplace for months or years, the idea of stepping back in can feel overwhelming. Your confidence may have dipped. Your priorities may have changed. The woman you are now might not match the woman who left.
This transition is powerful — and you’re allowed to feel every part of it.
What should you wear? Are your digital skills OK in an increasingly digital workplace? Should you work from home or from an office or a mix of the two? How can you juggle parenting or caring responsibilities with the demands of a job?
The Real Reasons Women Take Career Breaks
Women’s lives are full of seasons, and sometimes paid work simply cannot be the priority. Common reasons include:
- Caring responsibilities
- Burnout or stress
- Illness or recovery
- Redundancy
- Motherhood
- Menopause
- Life transitions, relocations or relationship changes
These aren’t “gaps” — they’re chapters. They shape you, strengthen you and deepen your emotional intelligence.
Rebuilding Confidence After a Career Break
Confidence doesn’t magically return the moment you decide to go back to work. It grows slowly, through small actions, baby steps and gentle self‑belief.
I remember going back to work when my mum was terminally ill. I wanted to prove to her that I was capable and would be OK. I am not sure this was wise but we do what we think is right at the time. I do recall stressing about dopey things like having a ladder in my tights. How we torture ourselves so unnecessarily sometimes.
Your Skills Didn’t Disappear — They Evolved
Career breaks don’t erase capability. They expand it.
You’ve gained resilience, problem‑solving, emotional intelligence, time management, negotiation skills, and the ability to juggle complex responsibilities and limited money. These are workplace superpowers — even if you don’t recognise them yet.
Imposter Syndrome When Returning to Work
Feeling like you’re “not good enough” or “not ready” is incredibly common. Nowadays at least we have a name for it. Imposter syndrome thrives in moments of transition. But it fades quickly once you start contributing again.
I have an impressive Curriculum Vitae but I still wobble with those feelings now and again. I have friends including celebrities who are so familiar with such anxieties too. Human again!
You don’t need to be perfect. None of us are. You just need to begin.
Practical Steps to Prepare for Returning to Work
A little preparation goes a long way in calming nerves and building momentum.
Refresh Your CV With Your Whole Story
Don’t hide your break. Frame it as growth. Highlight the skills you’ve gained, the responsibilities you’ve managed, and the woman you’ve become. Ask your family, former colleagues and friends what they value about you. Step out of yourself for a moment and pretend you are selling someone else. Check out CV tips and tailor CVs to specific jobs.
Update Your Skills and Explore New Directions
A career break can be a reset button. Maybe the job you left no longer fits. Maybe you never liked it much anyway. Maybe you’re ready for a career change after a break. Online courses, workshops and short qualifications can help you pivot with confidence. Now can be a fantastic time to work out your values and pursue your dreams.
Practice Interviews and Build Momentum
Say your answers out loud. Research organisations. Write down examples of your strengths. Think of scenarios, tasks, actions and results so you can present your work skills effectively
Don’t hesitate to ask if the potential employer can adapt to your individual needs. This might include access requirements or allowing you to see questions in advance.
These small steps reduce anxiety and help you feel prepared.
Choosing Work That Fits Your Life Now
Your life may look different now — and your work should reflect that.
Think about:
- Flexibility
- Commute
- Caring responsibilities
- Working patterns
- Your ideal lifestyle
If the 9 to 5 is not your preferred way to make a living, that’s more than OK.
Don’t Undervalue Yourself when returning to work after a long break
Women often aim lower than their true value after a break. Test the market. Look at salaries. Apply for roles that stretch you. You might be surprised by how much you’re worth. I got that advice from a family friend during the pandemic and applied it to good effect. You may get a pleasant surprise.
When Fear or Self‑Doubt Shows Up
If fear is holding you back, support is allowed. Coaching, counselling or women’s networks can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
You can also explore women’s confidence stories for inspiration.
You’re Not Starting From Scratch — You’re Starting From Experience
A career break isn’t a setback. It’s lived experience. It’s strength. It’s perspective. It’s part of your story — not something to hide.
You’re returning to work as a wiser, more resilient, more emotionally intelligent woman. That’s something to celebrate. Wise employers know that.
I would love you to share your story with myself and my readers about how you navigating returning to work after a long break.
