Taking a career break isn’t a setback – it’s your opportunity to reset. Whether your time away was for personal growth, caregiving, or pursuing other passions, this pause can be a chance to reflect, rediscover your strengths, and return to the professional world with renewed confidence.

Understanding the Confidence Dip After a Career Break

It’s common for women to feel a dip in confidence after a career break. A study by People Management revealed that 69% of women reported feeling less confident in their careers following a break. This is a shared experience many women face when stepping back into the workforce. Recognising that others have navigated the same feelings can be reassuring and empowering.

Reframing Your Career Break

Rather than viewing a career break as a gap, it can be helpful to think of it as a reset. Shifting your perspective to see this period as one of personal growth can make a big difference in how you feel about returning to work.

Reflect on what you’ve achieved during this time and the skills you’ve developed personal projects, volunteering, learning new skills, or managing family responsibilities such as maternity leave. Many women use maternity leave as an opportunity to retrain or pursue further education, with 64% expressing interest in retraining and 20% having completed a course, often choosing flexible learning options that fit around family life.

These experiences can help you develop a wide range of abilities, such as:

• Project management  

• Time management and prioritisation  

• Communication and negotiation skills  

• Problem-solving and adaptability  

• Technical or digital skills

Rebuilding Confidence After a Career Break

Returning to work after a career break doesn’t happen overnight, and confidence is rebuilt gradually. We wanted to share with you our tips on small, intentional actions that can make a big difference:

1. Reconnect with your network – reach out to peers or former colleagues to share experiences and insights.

2. Reflect on your growth – consider the skills and perspectives you’ve gained during your break.

3. Seek supportive perspectives – mentorship is a great way to get clarity and encouragement

4. Clarify your goals – take time to identify what you want from the next chapter of your career.

5. Take small steps – confidence grows gradually; celebrate every achievement along the way.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Taking a career break is a powerful reset – an opportunity to reflect, grow, and return to your career with renewed energy. By reframing your experiences, recognising the skills you’ve gained, and taking small, intentional steps, you can rebuild confidence and step into the next chapter with clarity and strength.

And remember, you don’t have to do it alone.  

If you need a supportive community to boost your journey, join OLLMOO and follow us on social media. Don’t miss our upcoming events for the perfect opportunity to network, share experiences, and be inspired by incredible stories.

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