How To Get Back In Work Mode After A Long Holiday Weekend

Mondays are hard. But what’s even harder is that first day back to work after a long holiday weekend.

Unlike going to work after a vacation where you likely had so much time away to work you’re itching to jump back in, a long weekend is a tease. We try to fit so many activities and friends and BBQ’s into the short timespan that the days fly by and we don’t have the luxury of having a day to recover.

It might seem daunting to get back in the grind of work after a long holiday, but here are some things you can do to make the transition:

Do not look at your phone as soon as you wake up. Instead, wake up a little earlier to meditate, journal, make breakfast, and have a few last moments to yourself before rushing into the office. Take a moment to hype yourself up a bit. Music helps with focus and energy, so listen to your favorite playlist in the morning.

Eat an energy-boosting nutritious breakfast in the morning, especially something with fruit and whole grains. Then, pack a light lunch. If you indulge in a large meal during lunch, you’re more likely to fall asleep at your desk in the mid-afternoon. Stick to a salad with veggies or some soup and half a sandwich.

It’s hard to motivate yourself on a Tuesday following a long weekend. In order to get things done, create an environment that will help you prioritize: get in early, block off time on your calendar, set your email chat client to do not disturb mode, and grab a conference room to stay in until you have a good handle on what your priorities are for the short week.

It might seem tempting to work through lunch once you’re back. Don’t. Instead, make it a point to schedule in lunch with a colleague. Ask them about what they did during the holiday weekend, and pay attention to what they have to say. You’ll get a moment to relax during the day and strengthen your working relationship with a trusted co-worker.

While you were enjoying the long weekend, someone was probably covering for you. Once you get back, make sure you take the chance to acknowledge and thank them for their help.