Returning to your regular employment following a break: a guide.
Procrastinating on choosing a vacation spot until the last minute can lead to chaos once you return to work. This behavior often triggers what's known as the "post-holiday syndrome." Here's how to avoid falling into this trap.
Cramming your journey home with the latest transportation option, arriving home late at night, and diving into work the next day amongst heaps of dirty laundry and unpacked luggage? Sounds familiar? While employees make the most out of their vacations, they also inadvertently disrupt the relaxation they gained.
The immediate dip in mood and motivation at work following a vacation is a common complaint. Coined as the "post-holiday syndrome," this occurs when the body is still in relaxation mode, trying to adapt to work demands. But it's preventable.
1. Take some time for yourself
If possible, don't rush back home on the last day of your vacation. The transition back to work will be smoother. The IFBG advises maintaining some of the relaxation you gained during your vacation – like enjoying Italian food at home after an Italian holiday or setting aside time for meditation and mindfulness exercises. INQA recommends starting your first workday with no appointments to create a peaceful environment and get a clear overview.
2. Cut your workweek short
Instead of beginning a full workweek immediately after your vacation, consider shortening it to a few days. The IFBG suggests starting on a Wednesday or Thursday if possible. With a shorter workweek, the weekend is just around the corner, helping to lessen the post-holiday blues.
3. Don't be afraid to lie a little
Per INQA's advice, if you want to give yourself a little breathing room, extend your out-of-office message by at least an extra day. This may make your colleagues hold back on calling or sending emails for a bit longer.
Employers may notice a decrease in their employees' productivity and motivation after their vacations due to the post-holiday syndrome. To help alleviate this, encouraging extended out-of-office messages or starting workweeks on later days can allow employees to transition back to work at a more relaxed pace.
