Returning from a holiday? 5 strategies to help you get back into your groove

Returning to work after the August shutdown can feel overwhelming, even if you are one of the lucky CEOs on the island that considers themselves totally immune to Monday blues.

A return from a much-needed holiday period comes with overflowing inboxes and a pile of pending tasks, however, with the right approach, you can transition smoothly and keep stress at bay.

Here are five strategies to help you get back into the groove without feeling overwhelmed:

1. Prioritise and plan your week

Before diving into your tasks, take a moment to review your to-do list. Identify the most urgent and important tasks and create a realistic plan for your first week back. By setting clear priorities, you’ll ensure that you focus on what truly matters without getting sidetracked by less critical work.

2. Ease into your workload

Resist the urge to tackle everything on your first day. Start with smaller, manageable tasks to regain your momentum. This approach helps you gradually reacquaint yourself with your routine, allowing your mind and body to adjust to the pace of work without unnecessary stress.

3. Set boundaries to protect your time

It’s tempting to work long hours to catch up, but this can lead to burnout. Set clear boundaries for your work hours and take regular breaks to maintain your energy levels. Protecting your time ensures sustained productivity and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed.

4. Reconnect with your team

Use your return as an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues. Schedule brief catch-ups or meetings to get updates on ongoing projects and align with your team’s goals. This will help you quickly regain a sense of camaraderie and ensure you’re on the same page with your team.

5. Reflect and set new goals

Coming back from a break is an excellent time to reflect on your career goals and set new objectives for the remainder of the year. Use this fresh perspective to reassess your priorities, identify areas for growth, and plan actionable steps to achieve your targets.

By incorporating these strategies, you’ll not only ease back into your work routine but also set the stage for a productive and balanced remainder of the year. Remember, it’s about pacing yourself and focusing on quality over quantity as you return to the workplace.