Now Whether pregnant or adopting, find out how much paid time off you can apply to your maternity leave. Start stockpiling. If you work for yourself, consider how much time you can realistically take off.

20 weeks Make a list of all your responsibilities, both short and long term. Set priorities about what you personally need to do. Start there.

25 weeks Talk to your boss about coverage during your leave. Decide if it makes sense to hire someone or to parcel out tasks to coworkers.

27 weeks Use your list of tasks and recommend the best stand-in for each one. Focus on your highest priorities first.

27 weeks Secure an ally in the office, preferably another mom, who can help you navigate professionally pre- and postpartum.

30 weeks Inform all your business contacts what the plan will be during your leave and whom they should contact in your absence.

31 weeks Gradually start transporting home any personal items you don’t want to leave at the office during your time off.

32 weeks Set an official last day and inform all parties. Be sure to tidy up your desk each day when you leave, just in case.

33 weeks Train your replacements and start handing over your tasks, so you’ll be around to answer any questions while they learn.

34 weeks Mentally prepare for an office baby shower, which could happen at any time! Write thank-you notes. You won’t have time after your baby is born.

Excerpted from Working Mom Survival Guide, by Suzanne Riss and Teresa Palagano; a Working Mother magazine book, © 2011 Weldon Owen Inc.