Motivation and returning to work
Motivation and returning to work
Returning to work after a break can be difficult. Feeling flat is normal. This usually doesn’t last very long and most people are back in the swing of things within a short time.
To give yourself a push-start, here are some tips from AccessEAP, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider:
- Remember resolutions you made while on leave - “I am going to take lunch breaks”; “I am going to leave work on time”; “I am going to pack healthy lunches”. Choose one and stick to it! Achieving modest goals will motivate you and you may find a better balance between your work and personal life.
- Manage your time - it’s important to feel in control of your work. Practise time-management techniques to take control. Spend some time planning your day, factoring in tasks you find unpleasant.
- Be proactive - don't put off for tomorrow what you can do today. It is normal not to feel like doing tasks that are of lesser interest, but once they’re done you can get on with your day.
- Set goals - you'll know exactly what it is you want to achieve. You may have a large goal you want to achieve – break it up into smaller steps so that it’s not too overwhelming. Take one step at a time and celebrate each milestone.
- Create an accomplishment log - use this to record all of the times when you were able to motivate yourself to complete a task or keep moving forward. The log can inspire you the next time you need some extra motivation.
AccessEAP provides confidential counselling services and psychological-related training for employees, managers and family members. For more information about the services available to UWS employees, please visit the AccessEAP(opens in a new window) website.
