The idea of returning to your 9 to 5 routine can be very challenging after a long vacation. With all your projects and to-do lists on hold and an overflowing inbox, you might wonder if it is possible to get back into the work mindset without feeling overwhelmed and stressed. If you’re someone who feels this way, we’re here to help. 

This article discusses the various ways to get yourself back into the work mindset with motivation and a smile!

Complete ‘pre-departure’ checks

It is hard to truly enjoy your time off and get back into the swing of things when you’re back if you have not completed these top four pre-departure tasks. Number one – Before you leave, make sure to create a list of the projects you are currently working on. This way, you will have a reference point when you return. Number two – Make a short priority list for the tasks you plan to tackle upon your return. Number three – You may be on annual leave, but deadlines will still need to be met. Delegate tasks before you leave and ensure your colleagues have all the information they need to do the work efficiently. Number four – set up your out-of-office email and inform colleagues about your return date. 

Get your workspace organised 

You might have left your desk spotless before leaving, but chances are you will return to papers, post-it notes and even dust. To help you ease back into work:

1. Take the first hour back to get your workstation organised.
2. Sort your files, read post-it notes, label items for follow-up and toss out things that are no longer relevant.
3. Once you have tackled this, sanitise your desk with sanitising wipes and log into your system.

Have a plan

The best way to ease into the work mindset is by making a to-do list that you need to accomplish. Take your notepad and do an initial brain dump of everything you think you need to do. Then, strategically go through your email (Read more about this in #4). Once you have gone through your emails, note what tasks must be done and which ones can wait. You can also take the help of your team to align and prioritise the essential tasks with nearer and non-negotiable deadlines. 

Lastly, keep this list on your comfortable office desk so you can refer to it as needed. 

Tackle your emails strategically

Checking your emails the first hour you are back will only cause unnecessary stress. There might be a hundred unread emails, but it can wait an hour. Once you settle down at your desk, it’s time to make a plan. A clear plan is key to tackling your overflowing inbox when you return to work after time off without feeling overwhelmed. The best and quickest way to go through your inbox is to look at the subject lines. Use the star or flag function to mark important emails and categorise them as you go. Then work through one category at a time. This will enable you to go through them quicker and not divide your focus. 

Be conscious of your thoughts

Returning to work after annual leave will need discipline and a little bit of hard work. Although it is great to have a bit of mental discipline (especially if you’re working from home!), don’t let it overwhelm you. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself if you cannot get everything done the day you are back. Adjust your mindset and accept that it will take a week to catch up on all the communications and work you have missed. 

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