Whether you’re returning to work full-time or part-time, the disturbance to your regular schedule can be overwhelming. You’ll find yourself dealing with considerably more people than usual. And you’ll most likely need to rearrange your schedule to fit your commute. How can you cope with the stress that this shift in your job brings? It will take some time to return to normal or to a new normal. As you adjust, be patient with yourself. If you’re not delighted to be back in your workplace, don’t feel bad about it. There will undoubtedly be some attractive items missing, and it is acceptable to experience a feeling of loss.
1. Making the return to work process easier
It’s difficult to give up the convenience and flexibility of working from home. However, there are some benefits to returning to the office that the home environment lacks. It’s perfectly normal to experience some social anxiety while contemplating returning to work and engaging with co-workers. Before interacting with an entire team, start by interacting with individuals or small groups of people.
Please remember that the pandemic’s safety procedures threw social norms like shaking hands out the window. Identifying what makes you feel safe now and creating a plan to respect your limits can make you feel safer.
2. Play games to create a bonding experience
Playing games is enjoyable, but it is only one of the advantages of doing so. Games have had a comeback, and for many individuals, playing online games brings them back to their childhood. The following are only a handful of the numerous advantages. Also playing board games is a terrific way to relieve tension and have a good time. Laughter is a common side effect of board gameplay. It’s one of the most critical factors for a fun learning environment and increased creativity. Laughter and having a good time, in general, can also assist in reducing stress.
Endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, are released when you play games. Happy hormones can increase conscious and unconscious mind functioning, leaving a person feeling happy, caring, and pleased.
3. Taking care of yourself
Even if you try to make the transition as painless as possible, going back to work can be daunting. Self-care can assist you in coping with the stress of change. To enable a smoother transition, start getting into the pattern of a regular weekday a week ahead of time. Maintain a healthy regimen that includes frequent meals, normal sleep patterns, appropriate physical activity, and leisure time. Set aside regular breaks at work to de-stress and refresh yourself during your working hours. Remember to be aware of stress warning symptoms, including breathlessness, headaches, heaviness in the chest, increased heart rate, and body aches. Take action to address them as soon as possible. Put stress relievers near you. Things like a stress ball, a soothing essential oil diffuser, a snack, or framed images of your loved ones.
4. Lunchtime walk
Many people suffer from the negative impacts of a sedentary lifestyle. Getting some exercise over your lunch break can help you combat the physical and mental consequences of work stress. You could try taking brief exercise breaks throughout the day if your schedule permits it. This is a great way to let off stress, improve your attitude, and get in better shape.
5. Listen to music when driving to and from work
Music has numerous advantages and can be an efficient stress reliever prior, during, and after work. While preparing breakfast, listening to upbeat music can help you feel more prepared to interact with the people in your life. Similarly, relieve tension from a long day by listening to your favorite music. Do this on the way home will help you relax and feel less stressed when you arrive.
It will take some time to return to normal or to a new normal. As you adjust, be patient with yourself. If you’re not delighted to be back in your workplace, don’t feel bad about it. There will undoubtedly be some attractive items missing, and it is acceptable to experience a feeling of loss. The length of time it takes to transition varies from individual to person. On average, the adjustment phase can range anywhere from three weeks to three months. Reminding yourself that, like working remotely, returning to the office will ultimately feel like a normal part of life.
