Did you have to drag yourself out of bed on your first day back at work after the Christmas holidays? After days of carols, gatherings and indulgence, returning to emails and unfinished tasks can feel especially daunting.
If you find yourself staring blankly at your screen or struggling to concentrate, you may be experiencing a post-Christmas slump. It’s common after a long, enjoyable break – but left unchecked, it can affect your motivation, routine and performance.
The good news? There are simple ways to shake off the festive fog and get back into a productive rhythm.
1. Plan ahead
If possible, prepare for your return before you leave for the holidays. Make a simple list of tasks you want to tackle when you’re back at work, so you’re not starting from scratch.
Knowing what awaits you helps reduce decision fatigue and makes work feel more manageable. When you return, you can focus on getting things done rather than figuring out where to begin.
2. Set realistic goals
It’s tempting to want to “do everything” after a break, but setting unrealistic expectations can quickly lead to overwhelm. You don’t need to reply to every email or attend every meeting on day one.
Instead, prioritise your tasks and tackle them in order of urgency. Small wins early on can help rebuild confidence and momentum.
3. Plan something to look forward to
Your plans don’t need to be elaborate. A lunch at a new café, a coffee break with colleagues, or a casual dinner after work can make the week feel lighter.
Having something enjoyable on the calendar to look forward to gives you a boost and helps soften the transition back into routine.
4. Arrive a little earlier
Getting in slightly earlier on your first day back can give you a quiet moment to settle in. Use the time to review your tasks, organise your workspace, and ease into the day without distractions.
That extra breathing space can help you feel more in control, even if motivation is still catching up.
5. Keep the mood positive
Energy is contagious – both good and bad. A positive attitude can lift not only your own spirits but also those of your colleagues.
Sharing a light-hearted Christmas anecdote or a laugh over the holidays can help everyone ease back into work, ensuring that what needs to be done still gets done!
This article was originally written by Anisa Aznan for jobstore.com, an online job site that specialises in providing jobseekers with the latest job opportunities by matching talented individuals with reputable companies in Malaysia. Find your dream job with over 40,000 job vacancies in Malaysia.
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