How to get into work mode again after the holidays

How are you getting on transitioning back into work mode after the holiday season?

I can empathise with how challenging it can be to adjust and focus.

Holidays often involve a significant change in daily routines and so returning to work means adjusting to stricter schedules, more responsibilities and potentially some new work projects and deadlines.

The contrast can lead to a state of languishing and feelings of sadness which are commonly described as the “post-holiday blues”.

On a positive note, January is an excellent month for fresh beginnings and setting new goals for the last few months of the year.

So here are a few simple ways to get ourselves into work mode again after the Christmas holidays.

1. Pace yourself

Getting into work mode again can be a bit of a shock to the system so starting slowly and beginning the working week with lighter tasks can be helpful. This will help us to ease back into our routine and we can gradually increase our workload over a few days.

It really pays to pace ourselves and often we are far more productive when we become less reactive and more considered and responsive. We don’t need to rush into everything all at once because this doesn’t necessarily help us to be more productive.

This advice from my Dad serves as a great reminder to balance urgency and diligence.

2. Make a plan and prioritise well

Aimlessly wandering into our day may be a lovely thing to do when we are on holiday or even on our day off; however, to get things done, planning our day and prioritsing well is essential.

Identifying the difference between what is important and what is urgent will help us to feel less stressed as well as helping us to avoid focusing on unimportant urgent activities.

Taking time to plan our day and prioritise our tasks will keep us focused and motivated as well as helping us to feel more in control and on top of things.

3. Schedule in rest time

Creating moments of sanctuary in our day, and scheduling in proper breaks, is a great way to reenergise and refocus. Going immediately from one meeting or task to another can be exhausting. It is far more constructive to take some time to have rest stops, so we can clear our mind and recharge.

These words from the Roman poet Ovid are a personal mantra of mine and a wonderful reminder of the power of rest. It can also help us to preserve that lovely holiday feeling!

4. Declutter

Getting in to work mode again after the holidays is a great opportunity to declutter and create an environment around us that provides more space, energy and clarity.

Decluttering can have a positive impact on our health, happiness and overall wellbeing and will help us to be more organised and productive. It is also worth doing on a regular basis and can be very therapeutic and provide us with an energising sense of achievement.

5. Plan your next holiday

Planning our next holiday can offer numerous benefits, both mentally and physically. The anticipation of a future holiday gives us something to look forward to and can boost our mood and reduce stress.

Knowing we have a holiday planned will also lift our spirits and help manage stress levels as it’s always great to have something lovely to look forward to and work towards.