The subtitle of this book is “How to get a grip on guilt and make a smooth transition back to work”, and it definitely delivers on its promise. 

Jessica Chivers is The Thinking Woman's Coach, and has plenty of experience working with women to help them achieve what’s important to them.  When her first child was 5 months old, she tells us that she dropped him off at the childminders and skipped away, exhilarated by the taste of freedom and the prospect of a whole morning at work.

She draws heavily throughout upon her personal experience, and the experiences of 200 other women who were interviewed for the book, and that for me, is what made it so readable.  All the way through you can see other people’s viewpoints and you can see that whatever you may be feeling about returning to work, you are not alone - someone has gone ahead of you, and solved the problem in their own way.

Despite her own choice for returning to work without guilt, Jessica is not at all saying that this is the only way, At no point is she saying that you must return to work, merely that if you want to, there are strategies that will make it easier.  The book is structured around 8 “Mums Mantras” to help you work through your feelings, decide what you want and go get it.  They are:

• know your ideal work scenario
  
  
• keep in touch and ask for what you want
  
  
• see your family as a team
  
  
• find childcare that fits your family
  
  
• get a grip on guilt
  
  
• go for ‘good enough’ at home
  
  
• get organised for a smooth return
  
  
• do what it takes to thrive

Each chapter is peppered with no-nonsense practical good advice, and the style is chatty and friendly.  I really warmed to Jessica throughout the book - she is the kind of best friend that all new mums should have.

If you would like to see a preview of the book, part of it was featured in the Mail on Sunday on 29th May

Some more endorsements:

“Jessica Chivers has done mums everywhere a favour byhelping them get in touch with their G-Spot.  We’re talking guilt (what were YOU talking about?) If you’re thinking of returning to work, or are already there but tired of being frazzled, this book can help you get a grip” Justine Roberts, Founder, Mumsnet

“Jessica Chivers is the perfect ally for a new mother who is pondering whether and how to go back to work.  Her chatty style, empathy and wealth of anecdotes make this an easy read as well as a rich source of valuable advice” Octavius Black, CEO The Mind Gym.


Mothers Work!  is published on 6th June and you can get a copy through the Motivating Mum bookstore.  I also have one copy to give away to members of my Daily Dose of Motivation tipsheet.  The winner will be chosen from those members registered on 30th June.