Returning to the Office? Here’s How To Prepare and Adjust.
Fully or hybrid remote work has become the norm since the pandemic, but for many employees, this is coming to an end. Lots of companies, especially larger ones, are enforcing a back-to-office policy for at least a few days during the week. If this is happening to you, you might feel stressed, frustrated, and overwhelmed. We want to help. Here’s how to prepare and adjust for returning to the office.
Adjust Your Morning Routine in Advance
If your current morning routine revolves around rolling out of bed moments before logging into a Zoom call, now is the time to start adjusting. Begin by setting your alarm a little earlier each day. Allow yourself ample time for a balanced breakfast, some meditation or exercise, and a commute. By gradually easing into this new schedule, your transition back to the office will feel much less jarring.
Revamp Your Office Wardrobe
Have you been working in your PJs for the last couple of years? A return to the office signals a return to professional attire, but you can make this exciting by taking the opportunity to revamp your wardrobe.
Go shopping for some nice, well-fitted pieces, such as dress shirts, blouses, slacks, and blazers. To carry your laptop and documents, consider getting a new bag and prioritizing practical work bag features. And don’t forget about accessories! Maybe you want new reading glasses or nicer jewelry. Whatever you need to feel confident on your first day back, get it. Freshening up your look with stylish business attire can boost your morale and professional presence.
Bring Fun Things to the Office
If you cleared out your desk before transitioning to remote work, now is the time to plan what you want to bring back to the office. Whether family photos, a custom calendar, fidget toys, or a cheerful desk plant, these small touches can make the office feel more like home.
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Focus on the Benefits
There are actually many advantages of returning to the office, and focusing on them can help you feel better about the transition. For example, you’ll be able to reconnect with colleagues, collaborate more dynamically in person, and reclaim a structured workspace. Office environments naturally promote focus and minimize household distractions, which can be a significant benefit for many professionals. Adjusting to office life means embracing these positives and finding renewed enthusiasm for teamwork and growth.
Take Your Time Adjusting
Any transition takes time, so allow yourself the grace to adjust at your own pace. Set realistic expectations for what a typical office day looks like, and don’t push yourself too hard. Be mindful of your mental health as you settle back into office routines.
Returning to the office can be a bummer at first, but it can also be a chance for change, growth, and new opportunities. Use these tips to ease into things and feel more excited about the transition.
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Meet The Writer!
Hi! My name is Nadia Ibrahim-Taney and I help people design happy and fulfilling careers through authentic career coaching. My expertise includes career exploration guidance, resume writing, interview prep and LinkedIn profile optimization. My pronouns are She/ Her/ Hers and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I focus on how diverse identities impact and influence folks holistically and professionally. Please connect with me on LinkedIn or at Nadia@beyonddiscoverycoaching.com
