How to Regain Your Work Focus After a Vacation

When you’re on a blissful vacation, getting back into the 9-to-5 grind is likely the last thing on your mind. And once you’re faced with getting back into the office, the once seemingly simple tasks can seem more difficult than climbing Mount Everest while wearing just a pair of Crocs.

Luckily, by taking preventative measures while still on vacation, you can avoid the post-vacation brain fog.

1. Adjust your mindset.

After a relaxing vacation, coming back to a larger-than-normal workload can be stressful and discouraging. Make it a point to maintain a positive mindset to plow through your workload with ease.

Most people psyche themselves out about going back to work while on vacation. Choose to focus your mind on the positive things about your return; it’ll keep you in a positive frame of mind well beyond your return.
Be thankful for your job. Spend time each day thinking about all of the financial blessings you receive from your job. Think about what excites you about your job. Be thankful for your job security, your living situation, and your ability to indulge in a yearly vacation.
Hold yourself accountable. As a professional, it’s important to hold yourself accountable for your own results. Strive for excellence in everything that you do for the company. Your days will be more rewarding and you’ll gain respect from your employer when you go the extra mile. The extra effort will swallow your negative emotions about coming back.

2. Keep your caffeine habit.

Generally, there are healthier alternatives to fuel your body than caffeine. However, coffee may make the transition back to work more comfortable. Seek to change your work routine as little as possible until you’re back in the swing of things. If you’re used to that cup of coffee in the mornings, give yourself permission to indulge.

3. Mix business with pleasure.

Take part in leisurely activities that relate to your industry while away. You’ll keep your “work brain” up and running.

Now, bringing a full load of paperwork along is unfair to both you and your family. However, bringing a work-related self-help book along to brush up on your skills can help you recharge and stay career-motivated at the same time.

4. Keep the vacation alive.

Part of the lure of a vacation is that you’re free to do as you please. Nonetheless, with a bit of strategic planning, you can keep the spirit of your vacation alive by enjoying similar leisure activities on weekends long after you return to work.

Have margaritas with dinner occasionally. Tan privately on your patio. Ask your partner for a massage once in a while. Enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. If you look around you, you’ll find that total relaxation can be experienced everywhere!

Work often seems like the end of the fun part of your year. But if you implement these tips and keep an open mind, you can harness the excitement and happiness of your vacation and bring it into your everyday life. All it takes is a little flexibility and an understanding that you deserve to feel happy every day of the year.