The holidays are well over, and it's time to get back into the swing of things. For many people, this means going back to work (or school), and readjusting to a more structured routine. For me, it can be tough to get motivated after a break, and recently I feel a bit like I’ve hit a wall. So, I googled some tips to help and here are a few things google suggested.
- Set realistic goals. Don't try to do too much too soon. Start by setting small, achievable goals for yourself, and gradually increase them as you get back into the groove of things.
- Create a schedule. One of the best ways to get back into a routine is to create a schedule for yourself. This will help you stay organized and on track.
- Take breaks. It's important to take breaks throughout the day, especially if you're feeling overwhelmed. Get up and move around, or take a few minutes to relax and clear your head.
- Be patient with yourself. It takes time to get back into the swing of things after a break. Don't be discouraged if you don't feel 100% right away. Just keep at it, and you'll eventually get there.
We’re getting back into the swing of things now, and I've found myself struggling to get into the groove of things again. For some reason, the holidays around Nelson Anniversary and Waitangi day have really thrown me for a loop. Whenever I try to start something, it feels like walking through wet concrete, heavy and slow, and way more effort than it should be. Choosing and starting a task can sometimes feel impossible, and I decided I needed some tools to un-stick myself from this feeling. Now, I usually operate from a place of semi-organised chaos, so making and sticking to a set schedule is… difficult. Despite this,I have had some success using some of these tips. Setting micro-goals, something I can achieve on the same day or within the week, has been life-changing. This paradigm shift has been incredibly helpful, essentially allowing me to game-ify my work days and get more done as a result.
Here are a few additional tips from google that may help you get back into it after a holiday - Maybe you’re like me, and know all of these things, but the reminder is always helpful.
- Eat healthy foods. Eating nutritious foods will give you the energy you need to power through your day.
- Get enough sleep. When you're well-rested, you'll be better able to focus and concentrate.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and improve your mood.
- Spend time with loved ones. Spending time with friends and family can help you feel supported and connected.
Remember, it's normal to feel a little bit out of sorts after the holidays. Just be patient with yourself, and you'll eventually get back into the swing of things. My focus this month is on reigning in my perfectionist tendencies and just doing my best each day (even if my best is not as good as I’d like it to be), and not on the list of things that didn't get done that day - they will be there to tackle another time.
If you have any tips or tricks for getting (mentally) back in the game, I’d love to hear them!
Take Care, and Good Luck going forward.
Emily (: