Discover practical strategies to smoothly transition from festive holiday mode to a productive work rhythm, blending cultural insights with actionable tips for a balanced and motivated start to the year.
Johannesburg, South Africa (09 January 2023) – Not going to lie… getting back into “things” can feel really tough. Especially if you’ve had a really lekker holiday. Like, how do you go from drinking champagne with breakfast to having to hear (insert name) moan about the fact that (insert name) parked in the wrong bay and on top of that (insert name) hasn’t changed the printer ink… all before you’ve even had your 3rd cup of happiness?
Getting back into the groove of a work/life/fun balance can be pretty difficult.
Cause let’s face it, Dezemba vibes in South Africa is a whole culture. It’s our thing. We look forward to it all year, and then it’s here, and then it’s gone in a flash. So, this week is going to be a little difficult (for most of us).
“I’ve taken this week kinda off. To ease into it. Luckily, I worked straight through (even though I was travelling), but I wrote articles every day, kept up to date with my emails and made sure I was on top of everything. So, this week is a go-slow for me. I’ll reply to your emails (maybe), we will be delivering books (yup, that started yesterday), I have some meetings and I’m back in the 702 studio with Mands this week for my Friday Feature.”
Yesterday, on my social media, I spoke about happiness… how we need to strive for it and how we need to try to create it. Today, I want to give you some practical tips on getting kick-started at work this week to really make twenty-twenty more (good things).
Playlist Power-Up:
Create a kick-off playlist filled with your favourite tunes that pump you up. Blast it in the morning before diving into work to get those positive vibes flowing and shake off any holiday blues. Currently listening to Tay-Tay… why did you even ask? But if you want something to get you going, listen to Emeli Sandé – Nothing We Can’t Handle. You can thank me later.
Desk Décor Refresh:
Spruce up your workspace by “spring-cleaning” it. Chuck that ish you don’t use out. Or add a few new gadgets, plants, or funky stationery. Adding some personal touches can make your desk feel like a mini-holiday spot, making the transition back to work a bit more enjoyable. You spend a kak-long time in your work space, try to make it a happy place!
Snack Attack:
Stock up on your favourite snacks or treats to indulge in during the day. Whether it’s a stash of chocolates, nuts, or fruit, having something tasty to munch on can add a sprinkle of joy to your workday and keep your energy levels up. For me, it’s my salt and vinegar crunchy chickpeas. Homemade. Ridiculously delish.
Virtual Vacation Photos:
Change your computer or phone wallpaper to a photo from your holiday. Whenever you glance at it, it’ll serve as a reminder of the fantastic time you had and motivate you to power through your tasks so you can plan your next adventure. My computer and phone home screen have a widget that changes with all my favourite photos. I promise you, this is a game-changer.
Mini Breaks & Rewards:
Treat yourself to mini-breaks throughout the day. Whether it’s a quick dance break, a five-minute meditation session, or a chat with a colleague about your holiday highlights, taking short breaks to unwind and connect can make your workday more enjoyable. I have so many mini-breaks throughout the day. I start working at around 5:30am, go to gym at 9am (for an hour), head back to work and then take a proper lunch, work some more and then it’s puppy walks in the afternoon. Stepping away to re-focus is so bladdy important.
Embrace the ‘Pole-Pole’ Mindset:
When I climbed Kilimanjaro, we learnt a Swahili saying – pole-pole – which means slowly, slowly. Adopt a relaxed and steady pace as you ease back into your work routine. Instead of rushing to catch up on everything at once, focus on completing tasks one step at a time. Allow yourself the space to breathe, reflect, and adjust gradually. You will successfully reach the summit of your Kilimanjaro this year… just pole-pole my friends.
I hope this helps you kick start your year to twenty-twenty more (good things).
by 