Fitting it at work after maternity leave

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I returned from maternity leave to a position I had been in for approx. 7 years about 12 months ago. Whilst I was on maternity leave the business underwent restructuring and hired new staff. Since coming back, there has been cliques that were not there previously. I just don’t know where I fit anymore. The new staff are much younger than me, and I feel so lonely whilst at work. How do you navigate this? It has gotten to the point where I am seeking other employment but in my current field this is hard to come by. I have spoken to management about the position I am in, but not much has changed. My priorities have changed and I don’t need them to like me, but I just don’t want to feel so “isolated” anymore.

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- - MamaBear81 said
  - 31 Jul 2024
    4:23 pm
Making the transition back to work after mat leave can be a hard journey to navigate and even harder with so much change. If your employer has an EAP program, reach out and have a chat with them. I empathise as experienced similar when returned and for me it was my imposter syndrome that I have tried to overcome. If you can confide in your manager absolutely do, your well-being is the most important thing and anything you can try to help you relax and try to enjoy it more will help you ease back in. It can take awhile readjusting as things are so different working as a mumma and having so much more to be on top of. You’re doing well reaching out for support, hopefully things look up soon
- - mom462038 said
  - 08 Jan 2024
    1:54 pm
Not sure if this workplace is the best one for you. You shouldn’t feel like this at work
- - mom465794 said
  - 04 Nov 2023
    3:16 pm
Sounds like you need a change. Going to work shouldn’t be uncomfortable and if they’re making you uncomfortable you should speak up!
- - mom462038 said
  - 02 Nov 2023
    9:07 am
Oh sounds horrible. All I can suggest is more time ????‍♀️ And keep looking for a new job just in case things don’t improve in your current job
- - mom495134 said
  - 23 Oct 2023
    5:58 am
No advice as such but I had the same issue. Sending you hugs.
Just give it some time. Everything changes when your a mumma x
- - TraceyGail said
  - 20 Oct 2023
    10:16 am
I think it will just take time. Be friendly and ask after their families etc. and it will gradually evolve.
- - mom93821 said
  - 20 Oct 2023
    6:41 am
I am in a field that shifts and changes all of the time. I find common ground with people and then they happily talk about themselves and other topics. I do have a positive nature and say “hello” with a smile to everyone at work. People return the greeting and smile and engage in conversation. Coffee catch ups and shared meals can help with being included. I like a mix of time to myself and some inclusion. Good luck!
- - Ellen said
  - 19 Oct 2023
    8:50 am
I think it would be good to give it time, in a way you came back into a new team
- - mom486197 said
  - 18 Oct 2023
    8:37 pm
I found this happened for me at work also and it took about 2 years for things to change but I am glad I hung in there as it is fine now. Good luck, hope it all works out for you.
- - GemmaLaurenMary said
  - 18 Oct 2023
    7:32 pm
I would keep pushing through. They might not mean to come across as cliquey! It might just take time to develop a relationship with them.