Going back to work after the holidays might be one of the hardest things to do. You just spent a few days or even a couple weeks off, and going back to work might have you hitting a wall(been there before!). Sadly, we all have to go back eventually, and there are a few tricks to ease the transition form holiday mode back to work mode.
1. Give yourself some catch-up days
You can't expect to jump back into being productive after a holiday, so make sure to give yourself a little room to breathe. A catch-up day can be anything from an extra day off to get over your jetlag and clean your house after all the guests have gone, or just a day you set aside to clear your inbox and set the tasks for the rest of the week. Don't try to schedule important meetings your next day back, it's more than likely you won't be at your peak and a break is essential.
2. Make a To-Do List (and follow it)
The easiest way to ease back into work is tracking what you need to be doing. Some people make a To-Do list everyday they work anyway, but for those of you who don't, this is a great way to keep track of what needs to be done even if your mind is still back in vacation mode. Make it an accessible list, like actually writing it down and crossing things out as you finish them. It will keep you on track for the days ahead as you get back into work mode. Remember to do the thing you're dreading to do first since it'll make the rest of the to-dos seem like a breeze.
3. Get back to a normal routine at work AND at home
Most people have a very set schedule at work, like coffee at 9 am, lunch at noon, meetings in the afternoon, etc. A good way to transition back to work is to go back to the routine you're used to. This means your home routine too. You might have had to put off your daily workout or your Happy Hour hangouts because of the holiday, but getting every aspect of your life back to normal can help put you back in a productive mindset.
I know what its like to come back from a long break but setting the intention doing these few things will help. It also helps to clean up a bit around the office and read some productivity tips. Whatever you do to get back in the groove, let me know in the comments below!
How do you get back to work after the holidays?
-Sayeh, The Office Stylist