Now that the holiday season has come to a close, most professionals are heading back to the workplace, trying to get back into their regular routine. While readjusting to a normal schedule seems simple at first glance, a significant stint away from work, especially if it wasn’t entirely relaxing (as some holiday obligations can be quite stressful), leaves many people feeling drained. Plus, if you didn’t organize your workspace before your vacation, you could end up overwhelmed trying to refocus at work and get back on target.
Luckily, there are things anyone can do to help them refocus at work after the holidays. Here are some ways to get started.
Get Up and Moving
Sometimes, feelings of lethargy are what prevent you from getting back on track. While a quick fix, like the caffeine in your coffee, may help in the short-term, physical activity is a better long-term solution. If you feel your energy levels starting to dip, consider integrating some movement into your day. This can be as simple as stepping away from your desk for a minute to taking a quick walk during lunch. Even a few moments can make a lot of difference, so don’t let a lack of time hold you back.
Use Music
In some cases, people struggle to focus because of the noise-related distractions that can infiltrate their workspace. Ambient noise can be hard to ignore, especially if you are having trouble staying on target in the first place.
One possible solution, if your workplace allows it, is to use headphones and listen to music. This can give you a mechanism for blocking out distractions while allowing you to listen to something you enjoy instead. However, if you do decide to bring in your own tunes, make sure they can’t be overheard by others in the area. Additionally, select songs without lyrics, as they can actually make it harder to concentrate instead of helping.
Seize Control of Your Day
It is perfectly normal for your energy levels to fluctuate throughout the workday. Some people are morning people, while others peak later in the day; either early in the afternoon or even after the sun goes down.
Understanding your pattern can be incredibly beneficial, especially when you have options regarding when certain activities are scheduled. For example, if you are more focused in the morning, try to get your detail-oriented or complex work handled in the earlier hours of the day and leave your simpler tasks for the afternoon. If you are more productive after lunch, reverse that schedule.
The main idea behind the approach is to use your natural rhythm to help you be more effective throughout the day, allowing you to handle easier duties when your energy levels decline and more challenging work when you’re ready to soar. Just make sure you allow enough time to manage your tasks, especially if you excel in the afternoon, so you won’t experience unnecessary stress if something doesn’t get finished.
By following the tips above, you can readapt to your usual routine faster than ever and refocus at work. If you are interested in learning more or would like to find a new position, the professionals at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to see how our services can help you move forward in your Michigan or Ohio career today.
