Your return-to-work strategy, after the long break!
Happy new year everyone!
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Getting back into the groove after a break can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can regain momentum quickly. Use our tips to make sure that you have a successful return to the workplace, and even enjoy being back with your colleagues!
Yes, the break was fun, but routine is important…the key though is making the workplace one where people can collectively thrive and feed of each other…you are all in this together…not alone!
First of all, plan ahead. Review your schedule, and before your first day back, check your calendar and prioritise actions or meetings. Then make a “to do list”, identifying high-priority tasks and break them into smaller, manageable steps. Smaller bite sized chunks always appear more manageable…are there some that can be done as a team, and/or delegated?
Ease into work…use your first day to organise and catch up rather than jumping straight into projects. Spend a few minutes decluttering your workspace to create a productive environment…one where you feel ready to go! You can only tackle one task at once!
Catch up on updates, and check emails strategically: Skim through emails and flag important ones. Don’t try to respond to everything at once. Connect with colleagues to get updates on projects or changes that happened while you were away. Involve others and create an environment where people feel involved.
Set realistic goals and avoid overcommitting to anything. Focus on achieving a few key objectives instead of trying to tackle everything at once. Accept that it may take a day or two to get back to full productivity.
Re-establish routine, and create a schedule, making sure that you include your usual work habits, including breaks, and remember to stay hydrated! Use the break to your advantage and have a mental reset from your break to think creatively about ongoing projects. Feel refreshed and invigorated!
Acknowledge the benefits of the rest that you have had and channel that energy into your work. As you get back into the swing, celebrate small victories…be proud of yourself for making progress, even if it’s incremental. Spend time with your colleagues, and collectively create a “can do environment”. You got this!
“Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.”
Sam Levenson
