Who doesn't know it: As soon as vacation ends, all that relaxation seems to have vanished. Yesterday you were lying relaxed on the beach, today emails, deadlines and meetings dominate daily life again. The abrupt change is difficult for many - especially when there's barely any time to settle in between the return trip and the first day of work.
A temporary mood slump after vacation is sometimes also called post-holiday blues and can manifest itself through fatigue and low motivation, among other things. Ideally, even small changes can help make the transition more pleasant.
This article discusses possible recommendations for daily life. No diagnoses are explicitly made. In case of persistent psychological or physical problems, a doctor or trained professionals should always be consulted.
Allow Time Between Returning Home and Starting Work
Those who don't return at the last minute generally start the new week more relaxed. How about two or three free days between returning home and the first day of work? This leaves enough time to do laundry, go shopping, or simply settle in peacefully. After a long-distance trip across multiple time zones, the body can also readjust to its own time zone.
A Mini Work Week to Start
It can be particularly pleasant to start with a shortened work week. Those who normally work from Monday to Friday and return to the office on Thursday instead of Monday, for example, only have to face two workdays. This could subjectively ease the transition from vacation to work life. Two days of work sounds much better than five...
Plan the First Day of Work Consciously
After returning, a full inbox often awaits at the office. Nevertheless, not every task needs to be completed immediately. It can be sensible to first get an overview of incoming emails and upcoming appointments. Only then should priorities be set. If important meetings can be scheduled in advance, it's advisable not to schedule them directly on the first morning after vacation to reduce pressure after returning.
Slowly Return to Your Regular Rhythm
During vacation, bedtimes often shift quite naturally. Especially after trips with time differences, it could help to go to bed at the usual times a few days before returning to work. Regular meals and familiar daily routines can also make it easier for the body to adjust to the work rhythm again.
Bring a Piece of Vacation into Daily Life
The trip may be over, but the beautiful memories remain. At home, it's time to sort vacation photos and tell family and friends about your experiences. Small rituals from the holidays can often be incorporated into daily life as well. This could be, for example, a morning coffee on the balcony or a walk after work. This way, vacation doesn't fade from one day to the next, but continues to have an effect for a while.
