Should You Go Back to Work After Baby? An Undecided Mom's Checklist

You may have been working a 40- (or 50-, or more . . . ) hour workweek before, but that doesn't mean that it's the only way. Do some investigative work to find out if your company offers flex time or any sort of part-time work (if that's what you're interested in).

Think outside the box. Could you consult in your given area of professional expertise? Freelance? Don't assume that your work life has to be all or nothing. You may have more options than you realize.