The holidays are a much-needed break from the hustle and grind. But let’s face it: getting back into work mode after time off isn’t always easy. The inbox is full, projects are in mid-air, and your to-do list might feel more like a to-dread list. 

Don’t worry — the post-holiday slump is real, but it doesn’t have to derail your momentum. Here’s a simple guide to help you reset, refocus, and ease back into work without the overwhelm. 

1. Returning? Start on a Thursday (Yes, Really) 

If you read our earlier post , you’ll know this trick already — and it works year-round. When possible, plan your return for a Thursday. Why? 

• It gives you a gentle runway to catch up and settle in. 

• You’re not jumping into a full week — just two days. 

• You get a quick win before the weekend. 

It’s the smoothest way to beat the back-to-work blues, and it makes your first day feel less like a mountain and more like a molehill. 

2. Start with a Soft Landing 

Instead of diving headfirst into everything, give yourself a runway. Use your first day or two back to transition, not to tackle it all. Here’s how: 

• Block off time for planning — not meetings. 

• Tidy your physical and digital workspace. 

• Skim your inbox, flag priority items, and don’t try to respond to everything at once. 

Think of it as stretching before a workout — it sets you up for a stronger performance. 

3. Review, Don’t React 

Before jumping into tasks, take a step back and review: 

• What projects were in motion before the break? 

• What deadlines are truly urgent? 

• What can wait? 

This pause gives you a bird’s-eye view, helping you respond with intention instead of reacting to noise. 

4. Reset Your Goals 

The start of a new work period — whether it’s January or mid-year — is the perfect time to reflect: 

• Are your goals still relevant? 

• What do you want to achieve this quarter? 

• What can you do differently? 

Try breaking big goals into smaller, two-week or monthly chunks. That makes them more manageable and motivating. 

5. Ease Into Your Workload 

Be strategic about how you ramp up. On your first few days back: 

• Schedule deep work in the morning, when focus is higher. 

• Save admin tasks or catch-up meetings for the afternoon. 

• Don’t book your calendar solid — leave breathing room. 

This gives your brain time to warm up, just like a muscle. 

6. Prioritize Connection 

Reconnecting with your team can ease the mental load and spark motivation. A quick 1:1 or informal catch-up can: 

• Clarify expectations 

• Uncover unseen priorities 

• Bring back a sense of shared purpose 

It also helps break the isolation that can come with remote or hybrid setups. 

7. Keep it Light, But Consistent 

You don’t need to hit top speed on Day One. Focus on creating rhythm: 

• Start your day with a short routine — coffee, plan, focus. 

• End your day by reviewing progress and prepping for tomorrow. 

• Celebrate small wins to rebuild momentum. 

Remember: consistency beats intensity when it comes to long-term focus. 

8. Give Yourself Some Grace 

It’s normal to feel a little foggy or unmotivated after a break. That doesn’t mean you’re behind — it means you’re human. 

Trust that motivation returns as momentum builds. Show up, do what you can, and let the rest follow. 

Final Thought 

Returning to work doesn’t have to feel like hitting a wall. With a little structure and a lot of self-compassion, you can reset your mindset and refocus your energy. The goal isn’t to sprint — it’s to build sustainable momentum. 

Welcome back.