Don’t Just Jump Back In: How Reflection Can Ease Your Post-Holiday Transition

As I settle back into work after a refreshing holiday, I can't help but notice the slower pace of the office. With so many people still away, there’s a rare quietness that can feel both unsettling and liberating. I find myself wanting to hold onto that holiday vibe—spending time with the kids, enjoying the warmer weather, and resisting the urge to dive headfirst into the work grind.

This got me thinking about the importance of reflection, especially during this unique, quieter period before September hits with its usual intensity. Instead of getting frustrated by the slower pace, why not embrace it? This is the perfect time to reflect, reassess, and prepare ourselves mentally for the busy months ahead. With just a week left before the kids go back to school, here in the UK at least, when  routines start to feel 'back to normal,' now is the time to make the most of this fleeting holiday vibe.

 The Science Behind Reflection and Why It Matters

 There’s an old saying: “A change is as good as a rest,” and there’s a lot of truth to it. Taking a break and stepping away from the daily grind not only refreshes our bodies and minds but also gives us the perspective we need to approach our work with renewed vigour. Research in psychology supports this, showing that intentional reflection can significantly boost our problem-solving abilities and enhance our emotional intelligence. 

Reflection allows us to pause and think deeply about our experiences, decisions, and goals. It’s during these moments of contemplation that we can gain valuable insights into our behaviours and thought patterns. This process is essential for personal growth and professional development.

Reflection is a super power! It allows us to clarify our goals and priorities, helping us stay focused on what truly matters. Through reflection, we enhance our self-awareness, gaining a deeper understanding of our strengths and weaknesses, which in turn leads to better decision-making. Additionally, by reflecting on our emotional responses, we can improve our ability to manage stress and anxiety, leading to better emotional regulation. Finally, reflecting on how we’ve overcome challenges in the past fosters resilience, providing us with the confidence needed to face future obstacles head-on.

Instead of seeing this slower period as a lull in productivity, view it as an opportunity to harness the power of reflection. This is the time to reset, recharge, and set yourself up for success in the months to come.

“Any tips Jo on what I should be reflecting on please?”

Here are some useful questions to ask yourself before the rush of work begins:

1. What did I enjoy most during my holiday, and how can I bring more of that into my everyday life?

   - Whether it was quality time with family, outdoor activities, or just having some peace and quiet, think about how you can incorporate these elements into your regular routine.

2. What are my biggest achievements so far this year, and what do I want to focus on next?

   - Reflect on the goals you’ve hit and the progress you’ve made. Use this time to set or adjust goals for the remaining months of the year.

3. What’s currently draining my energy, and how can I manage or eliminate these stressors?

   - Identify the tasks or situations that have been weighing you down. Now might be the time to delegate, reprioritise, or approach these challenges differently.

4. How can I maintain the balance I felt during my holiday?

   - Think about how you can keep that holiday relaxation in your life. This could mean setting better boundaries, scheduling regular downtime, or simply adjusting your mindset.

5. What would success look like for me by the end of this year?

   - Visualise where you want to be in a few months. This can help you focus your energy and keep your efforts aligned with your bigger picture.

If like me you are having a bumpy re-entry to the return to work , give yourself a bit of a break. It  isn’t about diving back into work at full throttle—it's about taking advantage of this slower pace to reset and recharge. Research also shows that maintaining the benefits of a holiday depends on how we transition back to work. Gradually re-engaging with work tasks while preserving some of that holiday mindset can prevent the sharp drop in well-being that often follows a holiday.

 By reflecting on these questions and using this time wisely, you can ease back into work while keeping that holiday glow alive, making the transition much smoother and more meaningful.

 So, before the busyness of September arrives, allow yourself to enjoy this period of calm. Reflect, recharge, and get ready to tackle the rest of the year with renewed energy and clarity.