It can be difficult going back to work after a three day weekend holiday or vacation. Maybe you got your travel on and now you suddenly find yourself depressed when you land back in your town. Or perhaps you slept in every day that you were off and now you have to jolt yourself back into reality by awakening early in the morning for a new work week. No matter the case, going back to work after several days off can be tough to rebound from.
Vacations and days off are a time that we must all use to regroup, have fun, and relax. But when that good time is cut short and reality bites, it often can be a horrible let down. Who wants to head back into the office after having three to four days off kicking back and spending time with loved ones? Even the most ardent workaholic would be hard pressed to recapture their career swag after an awesome several days off filled with fun.
So how does one bounce back after a three day weekend?
I’ve got a few tips that can help you get back into the swing of things in no time.
Regroup & Refocus
In order to keep the vacation blahs from happening to you, I suggest taking a day off in between your vacation and your day back to work, and use that day to regroup and refocus. Even though you are not at work, check your emails, return calls, and begin the normalcy of things at a slower pace than how you would if you were in the office. That way, when you go back to work, you are ready to go in full force.
If you cannot afford to take another day off in between your vacay and going to work, try to take a half day. Getting your feet wet before the actual full day performance may help ease you into things.
Don’t overdo it on the booze
While on vacation, don’t over-drink (alcohol). It can be hard going back to work when you are getting over a hangover of epic proportions. Drink. Enjoy yourself. But don’t go too overboard.
Regularly Vacation
Practice makes perfect, right? So don’t wait until a three day weekend or holiday to enjoy time off from work. Try to spread out your vacation and personal days regularly throughout the year, so you get in the swing of going back to work after a few days off. Exercise priorities and boundaries to make this happen. A healthy and full individual focuses on getting the best out of both personal and professional worlds.
Keep It Light
Try not to schedule any huge meetings or deadlines right after a three day weekend. That way, you can have some sense of calm when you return. Give yourself a window of three to four days to tackle huge projects if you can.
Delegate
When all else fails, delegate. If you have someone else in the office who can assist you with getting back on track, by all means, utilize them. Two (or three) heads are better than one.
These are just a few tips to help you rebound from a long weekend or vacation. Do you have any tips that help you get back into the groove of things after a three day weekend or vacation?
Oh, and if you are looking for ways to exercise balance and boundaries while on vacation so you can fully enjoy your getaway, check out my article: 5 Ways to Utilize Work Life Management While on Vacation.
Leave a Reply