The Starting-Back-to-Work Stress and How to Avoid It
By Brandi Goodman
Taking time off work for a while can be great for your mental health. Starting back, however, can bring in more stressful thoughts than you might realize. Going back to work after quite some time away can leave you feeling anxious. With some tips in mind, you can avoid some of those stressful feelings and return with ease.
Focus On the Positive
Don't dwell on the negative. It isn't good to spend so much time thinking about all that could go wrong, what you may have missed, whether you'll remember how to handle your tasks, or whatever other worries you may have about returning to work. Focus on the positive. You'll get to see your favorite co-worker. You'll be earning a paycheck. You may be doing a job you really enjoy. Focus on these positive aspects to help make the back-to-work transition easier and more exciting rather than terrifying.
Remember What Made You Want the Job
Think back to when you first applied for your position. What made you want this job in particular, above others? Remember what it is that drew you in, whether it was the benefits, the position itself that you knew you'd be a great fit, or the employer who seemed to really care about those who worked for him. Remembering why you got started will help you find it easier to go back again.
Write Down What You Remember
If it's been a few weeks longer, you may find yourself unable to remember some important details. Write down what you do remember so you have a cheat sheet for the first few days back on the day. If you have certain steps you're supposed to follow for your job, or passwords that need to be used, having those available and remembering them before you even head into work can be a huge help. You may feel a little less nervous to go back if you're prepared with the important information. If you can't remember anything, keep a notepad and write it down as you're told on your first day back.
Being away from work for a while, whether you chose to take time off or got laid off, can leave you feeling nervous to return. The longer you've been away the harder it may be to go back. Do what you can to avoid the starting-back-to-work stress and return to your earned position with positivity. These same tips apply to starting a brand new job altogether.
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