Are you excited about heading back to work?
I know that I’ve enjoyed the break from routine. Even though I love what I do, not having a set schedule has been so relaxing and such a nice change. Perhaps you feel that way too. Maybe you enjoyed having a cheeky champagne at 3pm, or having a less structured day.
If you’re not enjoying the idea of going back to work, there is something you can do about it.
Before I go on, I want you to clarify your feelings. Have you lost the excitement, or do you feel real distress at the thought of work? While most people will give a deep sigh at the idea of going back to work, they don’t dread it.
If your feelings are strongly negative, it’s probably time to really think about the role you’re in. Is it the right one for you going forward? While actively seeking a new job or transfer may not ease your emotions, the prospect of an escape might. I can help you find come career clarity through my online coaching program. You’ll discover why your current role feels uncomfortable and identify what you want out of your career.
However, if you’re not excited about work because you’re not ready to leave holiday mode, there is something you can do about it.
How can you get excited about going back to work?
Change your mindset.
Positive thinking studies show that “positive emotions broaden your sense of possibility and open your mind up to more options.” In other words, the world looks a much better place to those of us with a positive approach to life.
So, how do you create a positive mindset?
1. Accept that there will be some catch up to do. There’s always a lot to do on return to work. Catch up projects, overflowing inboxes. It’s unavoidable. Having a positive mindset isn’t about putting on rose-coloured glasses. It’s about preparing yourself for the task.
2. Find the fun! For me I find a lot of fun in the people I work with, but I also find fun in creativity but also strategy and being organised (I know, that’s a bit daggy!). Look for what makes you happy. Chat with your work friends over lunch, or plan something new.
3. Remember the satisfaction of finishing a project or making a difference with what you do.
4. Do something nice for others. It has a positive effect on your mood and happiness levels.
5. Take your breaks. In my last post we talked about the importance of giving your brain some time off. Remember to take a break every day to refresh and revive your brain and body.
6. Keep the habits you’ve enjoyed. If you loved going for a stroll each afternoon, keep doing it. You might need to change the time of day for it, but you don’t need to give it up.
7. Choose your attitude. The way you respond to things is all up to you. You can see the bad side or look for the good. If you tend to see the negatives first, start trying to look for the positives. Train your brain. Don’t expect instant changes but if you stick with it, you’ll notice a definite change in your attitude.
8. Focus on YOU. Make healthier choices in life. Look after yourself physically and emotionally. Well you feel well, everything looks a little easier to manage.
9. Choose the pace you wish to set and do your best to protect your boundaries. Back in November, The Female Lead did a great (and incredibly popular) post on LinkedIn. It said “We NEED to stop glamorising overwork. Please. The absence of sleep, good diet, exercise, relaxation, and time with friends and family isn’t something to be applauded. Too many people wear their burnout as a badge of honour. And it needs to change.”…COULD NOT AGREE MORE!
Going back to work isn’t all bad. If you remember to keep your life in balance, it can be fun. Best of all, there will be another holiday coming up in your future. Isn’t that something great to look forward to?
