After more than a week of staying in my pyjamas until lunch, eating all kinds of food, and going for lovely long walks with my favourite people, suddenly it’s time to go back to work!
I count myself among the lucky. I love the people I work with, and I love my job. It doesn’t seem to make it any easier to bounce back into the office in January. If you’re feeling like this, you are not alone.
Here’s what helps me beat those January blues…
Get organised
The night before, eating a healthy dinner, getting everything ready for the morning and getting up early for a cup of tea (while the house is quiet) and a quick walk around the block makes such a difference to my motivation for a busy day. I also love tidying up my desk and starting with a new notebook at the beginning of every new year.
Clear that inbox
I know some very impressive people who are terrified of their inbox. Take some time to read through and sort out emails. You will feel better knowing there is nothing lurking.
Set goals and prioritise
OK let’s be honest, there’s only so much you can achieve in the first week back. Be realistic (I am still working on this) as its much better to get most things done than overpromise to yourself or others and not achieve it.
Catch up with your colleagues
I always feel a bit deflated after a break, until I catch up with the other lovely Gingerheads. It is not long before we are all supporting each other, prioritising the work, and laughing together about something funny somebody said. I am lucky to work with such a talented, dedicated, impressive and fun team.
Be kind to yourself
Take your lunch breaks, leave work at a reasonable time, and make room to fit in exercise and even a little sociable moment with friends / family. The inbox and ‘to do’ lists will still be there tomorrow.
And if you try all this and you’re still feeling flat…get out of the house, head to a coffee shop, and maybe have that piece of cake too. You deserve it.