The rules of workplace have changed during these three years and Niharika found it tough to rejoin work. Since her break from work was well-planned, she could sail through. Today, she is settling in her new professional life. Are you too planning to take a career break? If yes, you must know a few things.__ENDINTRO__

Where Are You?

Shashi Iyer, partner and head of HR Harvest, an HR consultancy in Mumbai says, "Whether you can successfully end a career break depends on why and how long you take the break"

While planning a career break, think about where you are in your career. If you are planning a career break after 3 years of work, you are in the initial part of your career. This is when you have age on your side, little or no responsibility regarding supporting a family and can take risks.

If you have over 5 years of work experience, you are in the thick of your career, already on ladder to the top. This is the time to build your career. If you are planning a break during this phase, it has to be well thought out and planned.

Your Break, Your Career

Shashi Iyer says, "Most may think they've planned their break well, but may find it difficult getting back after their break. Remember that you have to not only know why you are taking the break but also be able to justify it to employers and see to it that it doesn't harm your career in the future."

Here are some of the most common reasons why some of you may take that break and how you can map the break to your career, once you decide to resume work: