Getting back to work after vacation is difficult for many people. From pool days, fresh lemonade and "hang loose" to focused work, a barrage of unread emails and tightly scheduled meetings is definitely an adjustment, but there is hope. We'll show you how to master the transition and return to everyday work in a relaxed manner!
Slowly find your rhythm again
Try to get back into your work rhythm 2-3 days beforehand. This means going to bed at the usual times and getting up at the usual times. This will make it easier for you to get out of bed on the first day of work. It can also help to eat your meals at regular times. This allows your body to slowly get used to your daily rhythm during everyday work without a lot of stress and effort.
Household & Bring things forward
Think about what personal tasks might stress you out in your first week at work. Is it the weekly shopping? The meal plan? Or the full laundry basket in the bathroom with swimwear still lying dormant from vacation? Take a day to do these things before returning to work. Shop for the week and prepare dinner for the first three days. This means you can clear your head from personal errands in the first few days.
Take time for yourself
Take some time off again. Go for a walk, meet friends for coffee, or read a good book. Consciously allow yourself to “do nothing” again. If you want, you can also think again about what you enjoy about your job and which colleagues you particularly look forward to meeting. This will make it much easier for you to get started.
Smooth re-entry
If possible, schedule your first day of work on a Wednesday or Thursday. This will give you a short first week of work and make it easier to get back into work. Use your first day to get an overview of emails, deadlines and meetings. With a to-do list you can easily sort your tasks according to importance.
Consciously incorporate breaks
Breaks help you focus. Don't try to complete all the pent-up tasks in one day. It is much more effective to work with concentration and sustainability than to finish everything as quickly as possible. Use your lunch break for a short walk in the fresh air and then continue working with focus.
