Have you ever suffered from the post-holiday blah?
Post-holiday syndrome is an actual thing! It pertains to the stress you endure after the holidays end and you return to the routine of work and family obligations. When a person struggles with adapting to going back to the grind, he or she can feel increased stress. Physical symptoms such as fatigue, trouble sleeping, lacking focus, muscles aches, and changes in appetite can all manifest. You might also experience mood changes like being irritable, apathy, or a general feeling of being down. It’s usually short lived; lasting only a week or two, but can really set you back when you are working on tight timelines. Therefore, it’s important to know how to combat this holiday hangover!
1. Be Positive- If you generally enjoy your job, you will be less likely to suffer from the post-holiday blah. If your work seems like a burden, it can be more difficult to get your groove back. Try to be positive and focus on the benefits your job has afforded you. Positive thinking helps us to find the good in every situation, even if that is going back to work after a few days off.
2. Schedule “You” Time- If you tend to suffer from the post-holiday blues, take an extra day off before returning to work. This will allow you to get back into your routine more softly, have time to put decorations away, readjust, and get organized.
3. Tackle Work and Get Organized- Once you are back to work, take your time to review any issues left unresolved before the holiday break. Organize your projects that are due in the next few days and weeks. Review and sort your emails. Take notes on any upcoming tasks. Start with replying to emails that only require quick responses. It helps if you prepare before taking time off before the holidays. Remember that you do not have to get everything done on the first day, just starting and easing back into your routine will do wonders.
4. Set Limits- Try not to overwhelm yourself as soon as your get back. Learn to set boundaries and communicate that you are settling back into your routine. Avoid the temptation of taking on too much too soon. Try to stick to a schedule, do not work past your normal work time, especially when getting back into the swing of things. Before shutting down work for the day, write down all pending things and issues that are on your mind to clear your head and relax.
5. Stop Negative Thoughts- If you catch yourself brooding over negative, irrational, or even depressing thoughts, it is important to stop them. Negative thoughts can take over and cause you anxiety. Increase your awareness of those thoughts and challenge them. Understand they are unrealistic and irrational and that you will not achieve anything positive from this internal dialogue.
6. Relax-Take regular breaks and practice breathing and mindfulness exercises. Try taking a short walk concentrating on your senses. This will help you connect your body and mind, focusing your thoughts on the present moment, which will reduce stress and anxiety.
7. Focus on Your Health- Exercise releases endorphins which produce a feeling of well-being and even happiness, so it is important to get yourself moving after all the indulgence in holiday treats. Getting back on track with healthier eating also will help you to get back to your routine.
Surviving the post-holiday blah feeling isn’t impossible! First and foremost, be patient and kind to yourself. The holidays can be an exhausting whirlwind that takes time to bounce back from. Remember that what you are feeling usually passes pretty quickly and things will feel normal again soon. Ease back into your routine with a positive attitude as you replenish your energy and creativity.
