The transition back to in-office work brings a unique set of challenges, especially for those who experienced a long period of remote work. The shift to an in-person work environment can feel overwhelming, whether it’s adjusting to new routines, balancing work with life or dealing with the emotional impact of change. The first step in managing this stress is acknowledging how you’re feeling. Maybe you’re angry and resentful or maybe you feel a sense of sadness each morning. Identifying your emotions can help you better understand and address the sources of stress. Let’s look at 3 other practical ways to help manage the challenges of returning onsite:

• Create a Healthy Work-Life Balance: One of the biggest stressors of returning to in-office work is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. A few ways to help include: setting clear boundaries for when your workday starts and ends; resisting the urge to check emails or work after hours; and making time for family, hobbies and relaxation a priority that’s non-negotiable. The return to commuting can also really eat into your time, but try your best to use your commute to decompress. Use this time to listen to music, a podcast or reach out to a friend or loved one.
• Reframe the Transition as an Opportunity: Instead of focusing completely on the challenges, try to view your return to the office as chance for growth and new opportunities. Reframing the situation can help shift your mindset, making the transition feel less stressful. Think about how reconnecting with co-workers can offer a sense of camaraderie and collaboration opportunities that might have been missing during remote work. Many people find they are more productive in an office environment, with fewer distractions. Also, being physically present in the office may offer more professional opportunities, enabling you to take part in impromptu discussions and engage with leadership in a way that might be harder virtually.
• Focus on What You Can Control: Returning to the office may have come with a slew of new guidelines and expectations. Some of these changes may be beyond your control. However, focusing on the aspects of your workday that you can control helps reduce stress. For example, be honest with your manager about your needs and concerns. Open communication can help you navigate any adjustments and get the support you need. Now is also the time to stay organized and maintain a schedule to track to-do lists, deadlines and meetings. It’s an effective and simple way to feel more in control of your day.

Returning to the office full time is a big change and it’s natural to feel stressed, sad or even angry. However, with the right mindset and tools, you can ease the transition and manage the challenges that come with it. Leah M Joppy and Associates can work with you to face these challenges head-on. We can help you focus on building a new routine, maintain balance and take care of your mental and physical health. We can also provide tailored workshops to help team members adjust to their new norm. Learn more by calling us at 301-670-0051 or email us at leah@lmja.com.