by Ann E. Smith

Created on: January 06, 2009   Last Updated: January 17, 2009

Going back to work after a holiday vacation is typically something that you dread. After all, you were just getting used to going to the gym at your leisure, staying up really late reading or spending your days watching lots of football.

While it naturally may be a jolt to your system when you first get back to work, there are a few things you can do to make the transition back to work a bit smoother.

* Try to get back on your regular sleep routine.

If possible, try to get back into your sleeping routine a couple of nights prior to your first day back at work. While it may be hard to do, try to go to bed when you normally would and set your alarm, too. Sometimes, when you have been off of your sleep pattern, you feel a bit of jet lag that first day back. If you take this step, you can deal with that feeling while still at home versus on the day you return to work.

* Take Tylenol PM if necessary.

Do you ever get anxious on Sunday night and have difficulty sleeping, as your mind has started racing about obligations and pressures for the coming week? This same thing can happen on the night before you return to work after time off for the holidays. Consider taking Tylenol PM or melatonin to help better ensure you get some sleep that night.

* Check work e-mails before you return.

One great way to get a jump start on your first day back is to check your e-mails prior to returning. Spending an hour or two going through your Inbox the night before you return can save you headaches the next day.

* Get organized.

Similar to checking your work emails before you return, getting organized for the work week you return is a preventative measure for additional stress. Go ahead and get your gym bag packed the night before. Also, have your coffee pot ready to go and your outfit planned. That way, if you are a bit sluggish that first morning, you will be ready to handle it.

* Prepare yourself mentally

Athletes often use mental exercises to prepare for big events. They visualize their success. As hokey as it may sound, do the same for your return to work. Picture yourself being well rested, happy to see your colleagues and ready to take on the new year with focus and energy. Then, make it happen.

* Realize you are not alone.

January is a tough month. You are going back to your job. You may be experiencing post-holiday blues. The weather is often bleak. Recognize that you may be in for some rough waters and are not alone. Try to exercise, eat well and get proper rest so you can best combat stresses during this time.

* Take it one day at a time.

While your first day back may be a jolt to your system, just try to get through it. Remember that each day will get easier, as you adjust to your routine again. Before you know it, you will forget what it was like to be on vacation.

In conclusion, these are a few things you can do to prepare for returning to the office after a long break. And, once you get back in the swing of things, you will proabably be happy to be in a routine again. Also, given the current economy, most people are thankful to have a job to go back to after the holiday.

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