For some of us, returning to the office has already happened or is on the horizon. If you’ve been out of the office for months, reacclimating can seem daunting physically, emotionally, and socially. These tips can help support your transition back to the office.

Recognize your emotions.

• We’ve spent the last two years learning how to deal with change and how to function in the unknown. What have you been feeling? What are you feeling now? As you head back to the office, you may notice different emotions occurring at various points of your transition. You could feel nervous, anxious, or worried one day, and excited or energized the next. Give yourself the space to feel it all and know that how it feels to you is unique—everyone will get through this in their own way. 
• For some, returning to the office may be a welcomed change. For others, this adjustment can seem like a stressful disturbance to a smooth running routine. But for everyone, it’s a change—and any change can be difficult.

Try engaging in a self-reflection practice.

• Asking yourself questions about your experiences can uncover areas of strength in yourself. Some questions you may find helpful could be:
  • How can you manage through this change and any anxiety that may appear?
  • Is this worry/anxiety productive or unproductive?
  • Is focusing on the negatives making them feel bigger than they actually are? 
  • Can you be open to possible positives and moments of excitement that might be present? (i.e. seeing coworkers in person, lunch at your old favorite place)
• It’s easy to overestimate the difficult situation ahead of you, while underestimating your ability to handle it. Try to trust yourself and your resilience. 

Try to do a dry run.

• Practicing a new routine can be helpful. Try recreating a routine for yourself, and test it out. This may involve figuring out what time you need to wake up and mapping your commute. There might be a new protocol for entering the building, or your workspace might be in a different area than before. Ask questions and gather everything you need to know in advance so you can show up prepared and confident.
• After trying all of these practice steps out, determine if any of them need adjustments.

Take it slow and seek support.

• The adjustment back to work will take time and getting back to your comfort zone won’t happen in a straight line. Go at your own pace at first—don’t feel pressured to dive into the deep end right away. This will help ward off the feeling of overwhelm. 
• Because many people have spent so much more time alone over the last couple of years, it may take time to adjust socially. Balancing coworkers in person (including meeting some for the first time) as well as your own workload may feel strange. Coworkers may start engaging in small talk and discussing non-work matters with you, all while you are under a deadline. Find a quiet space if you need to. Use headphones to signal you are in the zone. 
• Lean on your manager or your HR partner when needed. Open communication will be critical during this time. If you have concerns or questions, talk to them—chances are, you’re not the only one who needs support. 

If you find yourself needing additional help adjusting to this new change, seek out a Mental Health Provider. Curious how Crossover Health can help? Visit https://crossoverhealth.com/ and let us show you how.