For many of us, we’ve done everything at home this past year – from setting up a makeshift office to virtual movie nights with friends. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that life will start returning to normal as soon as possible. It’s going to be a huge mental shift when you return to the office and there’s plenty you can do to prepare yourself. 

Revamp Wardrobe

Maybe you started this lockdown with the intention of dressing for work to be in the right mindset but now are frequently spotted in your dressing gown. Or perhaps you’ve been a member of team pyjama since day one of working from home. When you’re preparing for returning to the office, you should reevaluate your wardrobe. Make sure there’s plenty in there that makes you feel confident and professional. From women’s skirts to a comfortable blazer – you want to look and feel your best.

Communicate 

One of the best things you can when getting ready to return to work is to talk with other people. You can communicate with your manager and raise any concerns you might have. Also, it can be easy to feel like you’re alone in how you’re feeling but if you reach out to your colleagues you can talk about the past few months and find out what they’re doing to prepare themselves to go back to the office. 

Be Flexible

When you’re back at work, you may expect to complete tasks on auto-pilot like you used to do. However, things are going to be different and you might feel a little lost despite being in such a familiar space. You need to be patient with yourself, and be flexible to changes. Give yourself time to adjust to the new environment. Try not to get nervous about changes your office put in place, such as a temperature check or social-distant desks. Remember they’re there to keep you safe.

Take Care 

Perhaps you’re taken aback at how anxious you feel about going back to work. This is perfectly normal. You need to keep a check of your mental health during this transition time. If you’re thinking about only the negatives, make an effort to think of a positive, too. 

While the thought of going into the office used to be ordinary, going forward it could be daunting so take whatever steps you need to make yourself comfortable. How would you get yourself prepared for returning to the office?

 

*This is a Sponsored Post – the author has requested this post be shared on WE magazine for Women and WE were compensated for sharing.