Hoping everyone had a Happy 4th of July holiday.
We know going back to work after a few days off may require a brief time to get back into the flow of things.
However, going back to work after a prolonged absence may require a longer period of adjustment. Extended leave isn’t just for maternity anymore. Sabbaticals, family leave and unlimited vacation policies are a few reasons you might take time away from work for a longer period of time.
To return to your workflow seamlessly will require preparation and a plan. Not only do you need mental preparation, you also need to incorporate concrete steps to get into the flow of things and kick-start your productivity right away.
Here’s how to prepare for RTW (Return-To-Work).
Routine, Routine, Routine. Get back into a routine as soon as possible. Some suggestions by two of our a.team members who just got back from maternity leave are:
Wake up earlier. Setting your alarm clock earlier by 15 minutes every day is a good way to slowly ease into a routine. If you are managing jetlag or a new baby, it’s easy to have your routine disrupted, so this does take concentrated effort.
Hit the gym. Exercise helps you to sleep better while also giving your body more energy to use when you’re awake. You’re going to need the extra boost of energy when you’re back at your desk.
Regularize your meals. Meals are necessary to fuel your body, obviously, but they also send a signal to your body that you’re back on a schedule. They can also help structure your day. “I have to eat dinner at 6, no matter what” can help the rest of your day fall into place.
First Day Back at Work
Set Your Own Expectations. There’s a tendency to want to conquer the world right out of the starting gate. However, depending on how long you’ve been away, accept that you may not get caught up on the first day back!
Pace yourself. Catching up is neither a marathon nor a sprint, but a medium-distance race. Pace yourself and create balance between the various to-dos you have to tackle.
Set your calendar for the week. (Hint: you can plan for this even before you leave.)
Schedule meetings for Day 2. with key collaborators, clients, managers and staff to get updated on the department goings-on.
Get back to Zero-Inbox. Depending on how long you were gone and how many emails are waiting for you–this task can take a bit of time, so schedule time for it.
Your first day back is key for organizing, catching up and getting everything together. Doing this will set you up for success for easing back into work successfully.
Welcome back!
Artisan Creative is celebrating 20+ years in staffing and recruitment of creative professionals. Over the years, we’ve learned a thing or two that we’d like to share with you. We hope you enjoy the 432nd issue of our weekly a.blog.