It’s not easy to let go of something that has become extremely familiar. Working remotely that is. You see in the last few years, a lot of us have become accustomed to working from home (or even at our chosen space by the beach or amidst the greens!) due to the pandemic.
To be honest, adapting to that set-up where in our homes have become our work place as well, was quite challenging. However, as time passes by, we have gradually eased into our new routines and have remained productive in the comforts of our chosen space. Some have even managed to improve their own productivity, showing that working remotely is indeed possible and very feasible.
However, now as the world slowly opens up, returning to the office for work is now gradually becoming mandatory.
And this causes a lot of mental stress for those who are affected by this: people are starting to worry about the traffic, the additional expenses from eating out and commuting, the typical office stress and politics, the fear of getting COVID19, the loss of work-life balance and freedom in general, among others.
Yeah, I know that’s a lot. So imagine how overthinking about all those results in anxiety and stress, both of which we don’t really need at this point in time. So allow me to share with you the 5 ways you can deal with back to workplace anxiety better:
Stop overthinking
Seriously. Stop. Instead of continuously resisting the situation on hand and worrying about mere assumptions, focus on the facts and what you can control instead. If you’re worried about your safety, gear up completely. If you’re concerned about your savings and your work-life balance, create a new plan that will allow you to manage both. Remember, at the end of the day, worrying won’t resolve anything. More so if you’re worrying about mere assumptions.
Plan ahead
Prepare yourself for the upcoming transition by listing down all the things you need to do or have in the process. Ask yourself this: what do I need to make my transition towards working in the office easier? Get what’s on your list and update as often as needed, one day at a time.
Stop pressuring yourself too much
Take it one day at a time. One task at a time. Don’t force yourself to be immediately 100% productive or present. Allow yourself to just do what you can with all that you have. That will be more than enough for now until you have settled in smoothly into your new routine. Remember that more than ever, kindness is one of the best gifts you can give yourself now.
Talk it out
You don’t have to deal with your anxieties and worries alone. Know that you are supported and loved dearly. So reach out to your family, friends, significant other, workmates or even to your boss and express how you feel. By doing so, you get to unburden yourself from all the pent up negative emotions and allow yourself to get a clearer perspective about your concerns on hand, together with your much needed (and much deserved) support. If that/s not enough and you still feel overwhelmed, reach out to a mental health professional who can journey with you as you transition back to the workforce.
Celebrate yourself and little wins
Acknowledge your efforts. You don’t have to wait for big, life-changing results, because those take time. Remember that by simply showing up at work and trying your best to start all over again, you already deserve a pat on the back and more. Inspire yourself to keep going (and growing in the process) by celebrating yourself in your new space, back at work.
I hope these 5 tips help you deal with your back to work anxiety as you adjust accordingly once more to the new normal. Welcome back.
