Going Back to Work

Beat the Post-Holiday Blues with these tips

Everyone has their opinions on the holiday season, some people love it, some people hate it. One thing that I think we all have in common is that it is never fun when they are over, and you have to return to work. In an article Getting Over the Fear of Sunday Night, Barry Moltz points out a handful of ways to approach a Monday to make it a little smoother. These can also apply to whatever day the holiday ends, and work begins for you this year.

First, write down tasks to accomplish on your first day back. Take some time to look at your goals for the week. Eliminate anything that is unnecessary. Make a simple list and hang it where it is visible throughout the week.

Second, make plans to do at least one activity that you enjoy on your first day back. It doesn’t have to be anything major, maybe just lunch with a friend. It will give you something to look forward to and make the transition a little bit easier.

Third, use your first day back to gain some perspective. Take some time to sit back and assess where you and your business are headed. Do you still enjoy it? Do you need to make some changes? Is there a more efficient or cost-effective way to do something?

Fourth, quit whining. If you are not happy and continually complaining about your job and dread it, then it is time to take action and make a change. Use the energy it takes to whine and complain to create change instead.

Lastly, always be looking at your long-term objectives. According to Moltz’ article, if you are satisfied with your long-term goals and where you are headed, then it makes any day at work more bearable, because you know that you are headed in the right direction. You might even look forward to going back after the holidays. After all, at least going back to work gets you out of the house and gives you a break from the family.

Featured Recipe

Try this recipe from allrecipes.com for a tasty way to start your day.

Yield: 8 Servings

Ingredients:

• 5 Cups bread cubes
• 4 Eggs
• 1 1/2 Cups milk
• 1/4 Cup white sugar
• 1/4 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 Tablespoon margarine, softened
• 1 Teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat oven 350 degrees. Lightly butter an 8×8 pan, and fill with bread cubes
2. Mix eggs, milk, 2 Tbsp sugar, salt and vanilla
3. Pour mixture over bread, dot with margarine and let stand for 10 min
4. Sprinkle remaining sugar and cinnamon and bake 45 min