Following the vacation period: transitioning from leisure activities to professional tasks
After a relaxing holiday, many people may experience the Post-Holiday Syndrome, also known as post-holiday blues. This common phenomenon is characterized by feelings of sadness, lethargy, and difficulty focusing on work-related tasks [1]. The body and mind are still in relaxation mode, and the abrupt shift back to a fixed work routine can feel overwhelming.
To help manage this transition, experts at the Institute for Applied Work Science (Ifaa) recommend several strategies [2].
Gradually Ease Back into Your Routine
One of the key strategies is to ease into the workload. Avoid tackling the most challenging tasks immediately; instead, prioritize and pace yourself to prevent burnout [1][3]. Starting with simple tasks can boost motivation and is important for setting achievable goals in the first days back.
Adjust Habits Early
Reestablishing regular sleep, meal, and exercise routines as soon as possible can help restore physical and mental balance. Maintaining a clean desk promotes concentration and reduces distractions, making it easier to slip back into work mode [4].
Keep Hobbies and Personal Interests
Hobbies and personal interests provide emotional fulfillment outside work and counteract feelings of monotony or unhappiness. Focusing on the enjoyable aspects of the job can help alleviate the symptoms of the Post-Holiday Syndrome [1].
Practice Relaxation and Stress-Reduction Techniques
Mindfulness, deep breathing, or short breaks can help manage anxiety and maintain focus. Recognizing signs that you are overwhelmed—such as emotional flooding, difficulty concentrating, or physical stress responses—and taking timely steps like taking breaks or practicing grounding exercises improves resilience in the workplace [2].
Revisit and Set Meaningful Goals
Clarifying what motivates you at work and personally can boost engagement and counter demotivation. The Institute for Applied Work Science (Ifaa) suggests setting achievable goals for the first days back to help with the transition [1]. Quick successes can help boost motivation when returning from a vacation.
If symptoms persist beyond a couple of weeks or worsen, seeking professional support is advisable to rule out more severe mental health conditions [1]. It's important to remember that the Post-Holiday Syndrome is not an officially recognized medical condition, but it is a recognized psychological phenomenon.
Nicole Ottersböck, a scientific expert at the Institute for Applied Work Science (Ifaa), has stated that mixed feelings before returning are quite normal [5]. Meetings can disrupt the focus when returning from a vacation, and it's best to schedule them for later if possible. Scheduling the workday after an absence in the middle of the week can help preserve some relaxation [6].
Maintaining a positive attitude can help focus on the enjoyable aspects of the job. The Post-Holiday Syndrome can affect anyone who has returned from a vacation to a work environment, so it's essential to be aware of these symptoms and take proactive steps to manage them.
- Incorporating elements of lifestyle, such as hobbies and personal interests, into the workplace-wellness routine can help alleviate symptoms of the Post-Holiday Syndrome [1].
- To maintain health and wellness at home and garden, recommence regular sleep, meal, and exercise routines early as part of the adjustment process [2].
- Adopting relaxation and stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness and deep breathing, can be beneficial in managing symptoms of the Post-Holiday Syndrome and fostering resilience [2].
