Nobody wants to hear it right now, but we can’t avoid the fact that it’s nearly time to go back to work. Of course, lots of people work over the summer, but most of us take some time off, or work is more relaxed at least. Now though, it’s time to really go back to work. How happy or not this makes you will depend on how much you like your job.
I might not like mine as much as I like holidays, but I do like it, so going back to work after the summer is only a little depressing for me. It’s nice to make it even easier though, so how do I take the edge off? Read on for ideas on how to ease yourself into the new year gently.
The September Getaway
My number one tip is to stagger the return a little, by saving part of your vacations for September. Again the benefit here is twofold. For one thing, the return itself is easier if you have a weekend away to break it up. Another advantage is that the thought of going back to work doesn’t ruin the end of summer, since you have something to look forward to after you start.
Labor Day helps here– a great celebration means you’re not thinking about what comes after. You can go one step further though, and book a weekend away in mid to late September, while the weather’s still nice. Keep it local if you’re broke after the summer, but just having it in the diary will make the whole of September go by much more easily.
Depending on where you live, you could organize a trip, or a theme park, or maybe there’s a music festival on? Even just spending a night in a hotel or campsite to escape real life for a bit can do the job. There are always post-summer deals, as the industry tries to keep the season going, so look around and you can take advantage.
Look on the Bright Side
This might sound like a bit of a cop-out, but bear with me. Half of what makes us happy is our mindset anyway, and there are always positives to focus on. Most of us have at least some things we like about our job, and there is always the opportunity to move forward in your career. Most who work in sales or retail see a significant upturn in profits once the summer ends, it can also be a great chance to set yourself some new goals, and recapture any lost motivation.
We usually have colleagues or clients we like, and it’s nice to see them again after a break and catch up. The reverse might also be true when it comes to the kids. I mean I love my kids as much as the next parent, but let’s face it, the summer can be hard work, and it’s nice to calm things down a touch when back-to-school season starts. It’s also pretty hot where I live, and just being sat in the a/c all day is a nice change from being out and about in the sun.
What’s more, heading back to work is a great opportunity to work on your wardrobe. Use the excuse to stock up on workwear essentials, or pick out a few nice new outfits and a new bag. Not only does it give you an excuse to go shopping, but it also puts a real spring in your step when you head to the office. This is another moment to take advantage of sales and discounts, as retailers look to make the most of the moment.
Work Isn’t the Only Thing Starting
There are a lot of other things that take a break for the summer, and we bet you’ll have missed some of them. Most major sports take a break, but the NFL starts up again at the start of September, the NHL and NBA a month or so later. For soccer fans, there’s no MLS, but the European leagues start at the end of summer, so you can watch the stars in action again.
It’s a similar story with amateur leagues, clubs, and associations. Whatever your hobbies are, I’ll bet there’s an activity or class you participate in, or something you watch, that starts up again around now. So throw yourself into it, it’ll be easier to forget the rest.
Reconnecting with the routine can have other benefits. Personally, the summer is a time to let myself go a bit by doing less exercise and being less conscious of what I eat and drink. As much as I enjoy that, it’s quite nice to get myself back into shape again.
One Day at a Time
If none of that works for you then the best thing to do is just not think about it too much. Going back to work after the holidays always seems daunting, but Saturday comes around pretty quickly, and before you know it it’ll be Halloween, Thanksgiving, and then Christmas. Take it one day at a time, and you’ll have no problem enjoying the new year!
We hope this article helps make your return to work an absolute breeze. If you need any clothing or accessories for it, you’ll be able to find them on our website, and at great prices. If you need any more ideas, check out our Instagram @wearewordans.
