0
0
It’s that time of year when the excitement of the holidays fades and reality sets in. If you’ve recently returned to work after a break, you may find yourself staring blankly at your screen, feeling sad, anxious, or lacking motivation. You’re not alone – January is a month where many people feel the urge to quit their jobs, having spent time away from the daily grind.
But there’s good news: while it’s common to feel the post-holiday blues, there are ways to get through it. Understanding the psychological mechanisms behind these feelings can help us manage them.
Why Do We Experience Post-Holiday Blues?
During the holidays, we often experience idealized expectations of life – fewer responsibilities, more freedom, and ample time to indulge in things we love. Returning to work, however, can clash with these expectations, bringing back the pressures and responsibilities that were momentarily forgotten. This dissonance between what we hoped for and what we get creates discomfort – a psychological phenomenon known as cognitive dissonance.
This feeling can be intensified by the shift in identity. Over the holidays, you may have become “the person who binge-watches TV shows” or “someone who is available to loved ones.” Upon returning to work, however, you transition back to being a “productive worker” with limited time and energy. This role change can feel mentally taxing and stressful.
Five Strategies to Overcome Post-Holiday Blues
Fortunately, there are practical ways to ease the transition. Here are five strategies to help you navigate the return to work:
- Ease Back into Work Gradually
If possible, take a day off between your vacation and the start of your workweek to rest and mentally prepare. If you’ve already returned, try taking longer weekends, such as Fridays or Mondays off, to gradually adjust. Break down your workload into smaller, manageable tasks, prioritizing the most urgent ones to avoid feeling overwhelmed. - Incorporate Holiday Elements into Your Routine
If you enjoyed certain activities during the holiday break, such as watching shows, spending time outdoors, or trying new foods, make time for them in your schedule. Keeping elements of your holiday experience alive can help bring some of that joy back into your daily routine. - Set Meaningful Goals
Use insights gained during your break to set both personal and professional goals that align with your values. For example, if you discovered how much you value social connection, you could set a goal to spend more time with colleagues, perhaps by organizing after-work gatherings. - Reframe Your Perspective
Instead of focusing on the pressures of work, try to recognize the stability and structure it provides. Embrace routine and celebrate aspects of your job that bring you fulfillment. A shift in perspective can help mitigate feelings of frustration and disappointment. - Maintain Connections and Prioritize Self-Care
Reconnect with colleagues by sharing holiday stories and experiences, fostering a sense of camaraderie. Additionally, make self-care a priority. Adopt a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and get enough sleep to support your mental and physical well-being.
You’re Not Alone
Feeling down or apprehensive about returning to work is completely normal. However, if these feelings persist or become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Talk to a trusted friend or family member, contact a mental health professional, or consider calling a helpline like Beyond Blue. Remember, your mental health is important, and seeking help is a sign of strength.
By implementing these strategies and understanding the root cause of the post-holiday blues, you can make the transition back to work easier and more manageable.
Provided by The Conversation
