5 Easy Ways to Get Back into Work Mode

Vacations are meant to be enjoyed and a detox from work and social media is always good. The trouble is when you are back, how do you go into a full work mode? Specially if you are an entrepreneur like myself where you are your own boss! How do you start putting those goals into place and next start working on them?

Here are some tips that have helped me along and something that I have been using over the many years of working for myself.

5 Easy Ways to Get Back into Work Mode

– Establish a flexible routine

It never helps to go right back into the tight routine that you left. That hard push is only going to slow you down as real motivation comes from ease and flow and feeling good about yourself. So start with a lighter schedule on your first couple of days back – maybe 2-3 hours of focused work instead of a full 8-hour day. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed.

– Prioritize and plan

While your working sheet and your to-do list might be screaming with projects to be started, and activities to be completed, go slow. Take a deep breath and then tackle the high-priority items first to build momentum. Tasks that will make you feel energised and complete are good ones to start with.

– Eat healthy, sleep well

While it may not seem so important, eating the right kind of food and getting a good night’s sleep will not only help you feel light and action-oriented without the afternoon slump, but will also help to get back to your routine quicker.

– Limit distractions

While the temptation to catch-up with friends and colleagues post holiday might be strong, try to stay away from messaging or meeting up for a while to stay focused and get back to your ‘working mode.’ Also once you sit at your desk, close unnecessary browser tabs and apps, silence phone notifications, and create a distraction-free work environment for the first two weeks.

– Be patient with yourself

Last but not the least be kind to yourself. Getting back to work takes immense amount of love and patience. Give small rewards to yourself on achieving smaller tasks, acknowledge the fact that you have made a small start and that you are on your way there. It may take a few days to fully get back into the swing of things. And that’s OK!

The key is to be intentional about easing back into work mode gradually. With some planning and self-care, you can get back on track quickly. And the good part is that you are NOT alone! Good Luck!