Carina Parry-Stevens is class of 2014 graduate in Broadcast, Journalism and Media Communication. She loves communicating with people through articulate speech, vision and writing. Engage with her on Linkedin here.
Now that you’ve taken some time to relax, it’s time to go back to the office. You sit down and fire up your computer as a feeling of nervousness washes over you. Your mind starts to drift toward the emails waiting in your inbox.
We’ve all been there! It can be challenging going back to work after a break. How can you get back to the “productive” you?
Here are four tips to help you get back to work:
1. Rest Is Best
Make sure you are getting enough sleep or you will not be doing your best work. You will have more focus and more discipline. You know producing anything worthwhile on a drained-brain is near-impossible. Sleep will increase your mental alertness while also lifting your general mood. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep before going back to work after vacation.
Pay close attention to your diet–especially your caffeine intake–so you can get as much rest as possible. If you know you are tired, consider taking a short nap in the afternoon. Also, don’t forget about physical exercise. When you exercise, your body feels more energetic and you sleep better.
2. Know Your Flow
Organizing your workflow by managing time accordingly is always worthwhile as it puts you in good stead for keeping on top of tasks. When you know what to expect from your day, you are less likely to feel overwhelmed following your return from vacation.
Self awareness is essential as you know how you work best. If you have the most energy in the afternoon, plan your schedule accordingly. This will make those first few days much more focused and productive.
3. Give Yourself Space
During your first few days back, arrive at least twenty minutes early to account for any outstanding tasks left before your vacation or to catch up with work colleagues. You’ll thank yourself later when you feel more relaxed, organized and on top of your tasks all day long.
4. Perspective Is Key
Coming back from vacation is a great thing because you’ve had valuable time away to look at your working landscape differently. When you return from vacation, you’re likely full of ideas. Take note of those little changes you would like to see that could improve the business.
Until Next Time…
Remember, your attitude drives everything you do. Wherever you are, make the most of it. Sure, the first few days after vacation are likely more challenging than most, but you know you’re up for the challenge. Enjoy your breaks as a time to recharge, but also make the most out of every day.
Share your thoughts!
I’m interested to know how you stay motivated after vacation. What really gets your productive juices flowing when you get back in the saddle again?
