The post-holiday blues. The reason why people get them is because holidays involve that special time away from the place we don't want to be: work. Yet the irony is that work is how we can afford holidays and appreciate them more. We couldn't understand the importance of holidays when we were children because everyday was fun, even in school.
However, in the adult working world, we always feel that a break is needed. So how do we learn to enjoy the break and come back to work feeling recharged and not removed? Build up for the next one, that's how! Here are some tips on how to do so.

1. Mark That Calendar for The Future. In America we have several months with holidays in them. There are opportunities for three-day weekends in 10 of 12 months, especially if you work for the federal government. Take out your calendar and mark the next opportunity. Instead of reflecting sadly on the last good holiday you had, start eyeballing the next one!

2. Start a small holiday fund for that day. Every paycheck, take out a handful of ones, stuff them in an envelope and mark it "Holiday cheer". Make it your goal not to dip into that envelope until you reach that holiday marked on the calendar. Put the envelope in a secure place but you can peek at it from time to time.

3. Write out thoughts and plans for the next holiday. Everyday write a sentence or two at your work PC about what you'll do on your next holiday. Read a page from someone's website or travel log about that place, think about it, and then write something. The days will get closer and closer and your smile will be bigger and bigger.

4. When you get back, start over! Don't even give yourself a minute to be depressed. Start the cycle over as soon as you get back from that lovely holiday! You will find that work is worth it when you can get away. You will find yourself hating work a little less because that's where you get to plan your memorable weekend getaway.

Learn more about this author, Paul Bright.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about How to overcome the post-holiday blues?
We want to hear your view. Write now!