The festive season is a wonderful time for many—whether it’s the joy of spending uninterrupted time with family, indulging in delicious food and drink, or simply switching off from the daily grind. But as the holidays come to an end, the thought of returning to work can feel overwhelming.
Maybe it’s the idea of saying goodbye to quality time with your children, knowing that weekdays will leave little room for connection. Perhaps it’s the prospect of squeezing into work clothes that feel a little snug or enduring the crowded, smelly commute. Or maybe you’re dreading office small talk, dealing with that gossipy colleague, or putting on a cheery face for customers when you don’t feel like it.
If any of this resonates, know you’re not alone. It’s completely normal to feel a sense of dread or anxiety about returning to work after a break. The good news? There are steps you can take to ease the transition.
Tips for Easing Back into Work
- Pinpoint the Root Cause
Ask yourself: What exactly am I dreading? Is it the loss of family time, the workload, or the office environment? Understanding what’s bothering you can help you address it more effectively. - Shift Your Perspective
Instead of focusing on what you’re leaving behind, think about what you might gain. Could returning to work give you a sense of routine, achievement, or connection with colleagues? - Start Small
If the idea of diving back into a packed inbox or endless meetings feels daunting, start with manageable tasks. Ease into your day with a clear, prioritised to-do list. - Create Small Joys
Make your day more enjoyable with little pick-me-ups. Bring a favourite snack, plan a lunch break walk, or schedule a catch-up with a supportive colleague. - Give Yourself Grace
It’s okay to feel a bit sluggish or out of sorts—it’s part of being human. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that adjusting takes time. - Reconnect with Your “Why”
Reflect on what motivates you in your role. Is it the impact you make, the people you help, or the skills you’re building? Reconnecting with your purpose can reignite your sense of fulfilment. - Reach Out
Sometimes, just talking about how you’re feeling can make a big difference. Share your thoughts with friends, family, or colleagues—you might be surprised at how many feel the same way.
Is It Time for a Change?
If answering some of these questions leaves you wondering whether it’s time for a change, that might be something worth considering. Feeling anxious or dreading work could be a sign that it’s time to re-evaluate what you truly want from your career and life.
Working through these questions and decisions with a coach can be transformational. A coach can help you gain clarity, reconnect with your purpose, and move past the thoughts that are holding you back.
I work with clients just like you to help tackle these challenges in a safe, non-judgmental space. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, I’d love to offer you a free call to explore what’s going on and see how I can support you.
Book your free call today and take the first step toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.
https://calendly.com/helen-robinson-coaching/discovery-call
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