How to ease back into the routine after a recharging holiday
Ah, the end-of-year holidays. A time for feasting, frolicking, and forgetting about spreadsheets and deadlines. As you applied all strategies to disconnect and recharge you got to fully disconnect and recharge enjoying the company of your loved ones during holiday festivities.
But then, the clock strikes January, and reality slams back like a rogue wave. The cozy cocoon of holiday bliss is replaced by a to-do list longer than a pharmacy receipt, and your brain feels like it's still stuck in vacation mode. Fear not, fellow diva! We've all been there, and 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. Take It Easy When You Get Back
Firstly, acknowledge that it's perfectly normal to feel out of sync and ditch the guilt trip. You've been living on holiday time, and it's natural to need a period of adjustment, especially when you traveled to a different time zone. Try not to rush yourself even if the demands around you are high. Instead, embrace this transition and permit yourself 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 Get Back to your Routine
After giving yourself some time to breathe, it's time to get organized. Make a list of everything you need to do, and then prioritize based on what's most urgent and important. Not everything deserves your attention right away! Remember, you're not a human doing, you're a human being, and your mental health deserves a break.
This is a great time to put to a test how serious you are about your New Year's resolutions.
Delegating activities and setting reasonable timelines are key leadership skills that will be needed if you want to establish new habits in your routine.
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 Bike Ride or Yoga class and give myself at least a week to go back to the same level of exercises I was doing before the break.
Consistent sleep and meal times also pave the way for normalcy and empowerment. Prioritize these rituals, and watch your days flow with renewed rhythm and purpose. Don't punish yourself if you have overindulged in the holidays, eating special food, and staying late while celebrating with family and friends are part of the joy of the season. Getting back to the routine should have its magic as well as you start a new life season.
3. Set Boundaries and Prioritize Work-Life Balance
Post-holiday, it's easy to let work and other responsibilities consume your time. But remember, you've just returned from a holiday – time to relax and recharge. Don't let that go to waste. Set boundaries for your work hours and schedule your "me time" like you schedule important meetings. Recently, a client from my advisory practice said they felt guilty for prioritizing balance because everyone else seemed so focused on their careers. But balance is different for everyone, and you shouldn't feel guilty for taking time for yourself or for not working twice as hard when you get back. Remember, balance is your superpower!
4. Sneak Holiday Magic into Your Routine
Reflect on your holiday highlights. Was it the lazy mornings, the sunset strolls, or the tech-free evenings? Find ways to sprinkle these gems into your daily life. 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. Practice Gratitude to Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive
Remember the warm fuzzies of the holidays? That spirit of generosity and appreciation? Let's carry that into the new year by practicing daily gratitude! It's not just about sending thank-you notes (although those are awesome too!), it's about actively acknowledging the people who make your life and career rock.
Here's how to spread the gratitude love:
Reach out to mentors and supporters: Send a quick email or message expressing your appreciation for their guidance and encouragement. They'll be thrilled to hear how they've impacted your journey.
Celebrate colleagues and clients: Acknowledge their contributions to your success, whether it's a specific project or just their overall positive presence. A handwritten note, a thoughtful gift, or even a simple "thank you" can go a long way.
Show love to your cheerleaders: Whether it's your family, friends, or even your online community, take a moment to thank them for being your rock. They deserve to know how much you appreciate their support.
Practicing gratitude isn't just about being nice, it's actually good for you! Studies show that gratitude can boost happiness, improve physical health, and strengthen relationships. Plus, it keeps the holiday spirit of giving and connection alive all year round.
So there you have it, divas! With these tips and a dollop of self-love, you'll conquer the post-holiday slump and be back to your unstoppable self in no time. Remember, you're the boss of your own routine, so dance to your own rhythm and rock that daily grind!
Now, let's hear from you! What are your go-to strategies for reclaiming your routine after a holiday? Share your wisdom in the comments below and let's inspire each other to live our best, balanced lives! And don't forget to follow us on Instagram for daily doses of diva inspiration.