How to ease back to the routine after a recharging holiday
It just hit me today, returning from a four-day 4th of July holiday. The post-holiday slump.
You've just returned from a rejuvenating break as you applied all the strategies to disconnect and recharge, your mind still basking in the afterglow of relaxation and adventure. But as you step back into your daily routine, you're met with a whirlwind of tasks and a routine that seems to have run away from you. It's like walking into a meeting you didn't plan to attend.
Today I had a hard time to even concentrating on work and remembering all the priorities from last week. By mid-morning I realized I was still wearing my workout clothes, which I usually change into work clothes before joining my first Teams call. To be fair the outfits are not that different.
Don't worry, we got you! Just as we've mastered the art of controlling our schedules to improve balance and boost creativity, we can also navigate the post-holiday maze and reclaim our routines.
Here's how:
1. Embrace the Transition From a Holiday into Normal Life
Firstly, acknowledge that it's perfectly normal to feel out of sync. You've been living on holiday time, and it's natural to need a period of adjustment, especially when you are in a different time zone. Try not to rush yourself even if the demands around you are high. Instead, embrace this transition and give yourself permission to ease back into your routine at your own pace.
Some people block their calendars on the first day they get back from a holiday, so they can catch up on emails before getting back to work. Others prefer to return to work on a slower day (for example a Thursday instead of a Monday) to make the transition easier. I haven't tried these strategies yet, but I think they work pretty well.
2. Prioritize and Plan to Re-establish Your Routine
Once you've given yourself a moment to breathe, it's time to get organized. List out all the tasks that await your attention. Then, prioritize them based on urgency and importance. Remember, not everything needs to be tackled at once. Break down your tasks into manageable chunks and plan your first days back accordingly. That means you may not be able to fit everything you usually do into your normal routine and that is completely fine.
When I get back from a holiday one of my priorities is to get back to my exercising routine. As I never work out at the same pace when I am on holiday, I need to give myself a few days to re-adapt. For example, I choose the easier Peloton ride or Yoga class and give myself at least a week to go back to the same level of classes I was doing before the break.
Re-establishing a sleeping schedule and meal times are also fundamental to providing a sense of normalcy and helping you regain control.
I usually eat in restaurants more when on holiday, even if I don't travel. So going back to cooking healthy at home help me to get back to the routine
3. Set Boundaries When You are Back From a Holiday
Post-holiday, it's easy to let work and other responsibilities consume your time. But remember, you've just returned from a holiday – a time dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation. Don't let that go to waste. Set boundaries for your work hours and make sure to carve out time for self-care.
Recently I heard from a client from my advisory practice that they feel guilty if they prioritize balance as everyone around them is overly focused on their careers. As we discussed before, balance is defined individually based on one's priority. A holiday is a great way to re-calibrate your balance and you shouldn't be guilty about taking time to focus on yourself, nor think that you need to work in double when you return.
4. Reflect About Your Holiday and What to Implement in Your Life
Use your transition back to normal life to reflect on your holiday. What did you enjoy the most? Was it the leisurely mornings, the afternoon walks, or the unplugged evenings? Find ways to incorporate these elements into your daily routine. This will not only make your routine more enjoyable but also keep the holiday spirit alive.
When I am on holiday I make a point to be less tuned on the news and social media, so I can clear my mind. Getting back I always try to decrease the content consumption and move more to content creation - I am writing this blog post the day after returning to the last holiday, which shows my commitment.
With the content overload and FOMO - fear of missing out - keeping the mind clear is not an easy task, so it's a continuous improvement quest.
5. Be Kind to Yourself Before, During and After a Holiday
Finally, be gentle with yourself. It's okay if you don't get back to your routine immediately. It's okay if you feel overwhelmed. Remember, you're not alone in this. Take one day at a time and before you know it, you'll be back in your groove.
Getting back to your routine after a holiday can be a challenge, but with a little patience, planning, and self-love, it can be a smooth and even enjoyable process.
Remember, you are the diva of your own life, and it's perfectly okay to dance to your own rhythm.
I hope these tips help you transition smoothly from holiday mode back to your daily routine. But I'm curious, what are your go-to strategies for getting back on track after a holiday? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
And if you're looking for daily doses of inspiration, or just want to connect with a community of fabulous divas like yourself, don't forget to follow us on Instagram. Let's continue this conversation and inspire each other to live our best, balanced lives.