Mentally preparing for the return to the office

As restrictions lift, many companies are starting the transition back to working from the office. With some people having been home-working for a year and a half now, it’s not surprising that people have concerns about returning to the more regimented structure of office-based working.

Working from home has both pros and cons, but there’s no denying it’s more flexible and often more comfortable than office-working. You can wear more comfortable clothes, run errands when you need to, and have the added comfort of being surrounded by your pets. Having gotten used to this way of working, returning to the office may feel like a culture shock.

Here are some tips on how you can prepare yourself mentally for the change.

Voice your Concerns

It’s natural to have questions or concerns about the transition, so don’t feel like you have to grin and bear it - chances are you're not the only one feeling this way. Whether it’s your boss or a member of HR, find someone you feel comfortable talking through your concerns to and allow them to put your mind at ease. The better informed you are, the less anxious you’ll feel.

Analyse what you've enjoyed most

Getting clear on what you’ve enjoyed most about remote working may allow you to see how you can still maintain some of these aspects as you return to work from the office. Whether it was a better morning routine, more open communication with your team or taking better breaks, we’re all a part in creating the next “new normal”, so be assertive in what you want that to mean to you.

Manage your expectations

Chances are, returning to the office won’t be just as it was before. Allow both yourself, your colleagues and your employers grace as you all adapt to the new set-up. It’s a big change for everybody, so it’s okay to feel like you’re finding your feet again for a while.

Plan ahead for your first day back

After such a long break, returning to the office can feel like the first day of school, and all the nerves that come with it. Make it easier on yourself by preparing for your first day and, especially, your first morning back. Choose your outfit, plan breakfast, have an early night and allow more time than needed for your journey to work. Eliminate the cause for any extra unnecessary stress in the morning.

Practise gratitude

It’s okay to grieve the end of the working from home chapter if you’ve found it more comfortable. Practise gratitude for all that you’ve learnt and appreciated through this phase and look for the positives in returning to work that you can be grateful for too.

If returning to the office truly fills you with dread, maybe it’s time for a change. Call us on 01534 715150 to chat with Sharon, Shelley or Mark if it feels like it could be the right time to look for a new opportunity.