Heading Back to Work? Here’s How to Beat the Post-Holiday Blues!
As we all return to our work routines after the holidays, it’s essential to start on the right foot and set a positive tone for the months ahead.
I wanted to share some effective strategies to ease this transition. Inspired by a recent NZ Herald article and my personal experiences, here are some tips to consider:
From the NZ Herald:
- Embrace a Four-Day Work Week: Consider a shorter work week to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Plan Holidays in Advance: Having future holidays to look forward to can boost your morale.
- Opt for Office Over Home: Sometimes, being in the office can enhance productivity and social interactions.
My Personal Tips:
- Change Your Work Environment: If you’re remote, try working from a café or a shared office space like ‘The Crate’. A new environment can spark creativity and be great for networking.
- Start Early & Walk: I find starting work early and taking a walk before it gets hot very refreshing. It’s a great time to think and jot down important ideas.
- Break Your Day into ‘Pomodoro’ Chunks: Tackle tasks in short, focused intervals. It makes the workload feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
- Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile: Even if you’re not actively looking for a job, it’s a good practice to keep your resume and LinkedIn profile updated with your latest skills and accomplishments.
- Network and Build Relationships: Strengthen your professional network by connecting with colleagues, attending industry events, or joining professional groups. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and ideas. I’m looking forward to bowls this Friday with our TNG Mt Eden Group!
- Practice Gratitude: Regularly reflecting on and appreciating what you have can improve your outlook on life. Consider keeping a gratitude journal.
- Plan for Downtime: Ensure you have a good work-life balance by scheduling downtime. It’s essential for avoiding burnout and maintaining long-term productivity.
- Financial Review and Planning: Assess your financial health and set budgets or savings goals for the year. This might include reviewing subscriptions, planning for major expenses, or investing.
- Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Implement healthy habits regarding your diet, exercise, and sleep. Good physical health significantly impacts your energy levels and ability to focus.
Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you to stay motivated and productive. Let’s make 2024 a year that counts!