You've just returned from a relaxing and revitalizing vacation, but can't settle back into your daily work routine. You've got a case of the post-vacation blues.
According to psychology researchers at the University of Granada in Spain, this condition known as Post-Holiday Syndrome does exist, and brings sufferers such symptoms as tiredness, lack of appetite, muscle ache and anxiety.
But, there are ways to get overcome the blues and return to your usual productive self. Try these tips to keep your spirits lifted after your holiday.
Exercise your choices – Many individuals engage in exercise while on vacation, whether it be a walk outdoors or aerobics in the pool. It's important to incorporate such activities into our daily life to maintain a sense of well-being and relaxation.
All time ends with M-E – Vacations allow people to focus on their needs and take time for themselves by doing simple things like eating properly or reading. This practice should continue even when you're back at work. Take a lunch break away from your desk, or read the paper in the lunch room.
Book your next holiday - Having another vacation to look forward to can ease the effects of Post Holiday Syndrome. Think about what you would like to do on your next vacation, or where you would like to travel. If that involves too much planning, think about when you would like to request your next holiday, and make note of the days on your calendar.
Power off - One reason why people don't return refreshed from a holiday is that they actually haven't taken a break. With many companies outfitting employees with cell phones and BlackBerries, employees feel obliged to check in even while on holidays. The best way to achieve a work-life balance is to power off or at least limit your use of communication devices during your vacation.
Don't go straight back to work - It's difficult to go from poolside to the boardroom. Try a implementing a transition period between holiday and work. Schedule a buffer day between your vacation and your return to work.
Create a game plan – Don't be overwhelmed by the emails and voicemails you face upon your return. Spend 20-30 minutes planning out what you have to do, and prioritize your actions before going to work. And, let people know that you've just returned from vacation and that you will respond to them in the near future.
Divide your time – Taking several shorter vacations rather than one lengthy one can make the return to work life easier. Rather than booking a three-week vacation, try booking a couple of separate vacations and spread out your breaks throughout the year.
Put it in focus – Vacations offer time for relaxation and reflection. Use your time to figure out what you're doing in life and what makes them happy. While a vacation can help you return to work rejuvenated, it can also enlighten your about your feelings for your current working arrangement and prompt life changes.
Following these easy eight tips is essential for prolonging the benefits of your vacation and dispelling the idea that work does not come with good moments. Adapting some of the satisfying elements of your vacation into your daily life should help reduce the trauma of returning to work and hopefully ward off the post-vacation blues.