As the summer ends, many lawyers will return from sunnier climes or relaxed routines and back to the fast-paced demands of the office (and the courtroom).
While it’s tempting to dive straight back into work, this transition can be tricky, often leading to post-holiday burnout. At Realm Recruit, we’re here to help you navigate your return to work smoothly. Here’s how to stay energised and avoid the burnout trap.
Ease Back In: Don’t Overload on Day One
Jumping back into a full workload can feel overwhelming after some time off. Instead of tackling everything at once, try easing back into your routine.
On your first day, focus on catching up with emails, reconnecting with colleagues, and organising your priorities. A gradual return will help you regain your focus without feeling swamped.
Get Organised and Prioritise
Facing a mountain of tasks and a bulging inbox can be daunting. Start by prioritising what needs immediate attention. Break larger projects into bite-sized tasks to make them more manageable.
Using a task management app or simply jotting down a checklist can help keep you on track without stress.
Re-establish Boundaries
During your holiday, you likely enjoyed a clear separation between work and leisure. Returning to work doesn’t mean these boundaries should disappear. It’s crucial to re-establish them to avoid burnout.
Set specific times for checking emails or taking calls, and make sure you leave the office at a sensible hour. Maintaining a work-life balance is key to staying productive (and sane!)
Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, are effective ways to manage stress. Dedicating just a few minutes each day to mindfulness can help you stay grounded and calm amidst the demands of your workload.
Consider incorporating these practices into your daily routine, perhaps during your lunch break or morning start-up. These small efforts can have a big impact on your mental well-being.
Reconnect with Your Professional Network
Shaking off the post-holiday blues can be easier when you reconnect with your colleagues. Arrange catch-ups or informal meetings to discuss ongoing cases or new developments in your practice area.
Engaging with peers can reignite your passion for your work and remind you why you chose this profession. It’s also a great opportunity to share experiences and offer support to those who might be feeling the same.
Set Fresh Goals and Embrace a New Perspective
Time away often provides the clarity needed to reassess your career goals. Use this return to work as an opportunity to set new objectives.
Whether it’s exploring a new area of law, taking on more leadership roles, or improving your work-life balance, having clear goals can give you a renewed sense of purpose. A fresh perspective can make your return to work more exciting and less daunting.
Don’t Hesitate to Seek Support
If post-holiday burnout is affecting your performance or well-being, don’t hesitate to seek support. Speak to your manager or HR department about your concerns. Many firms offer resources such as employee assistance programmes, which can provide counselling or stress management support.
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and seeking help is a positive step towards maintaining your well-being.
Returning to work after a summer break doesn’t have to be a source of stress. By easing back into your routine, managing your workload, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, you can avoid post-holiday burnout.
At Realm Recruit, we’re here to support you in your legal career, whether you’re returning from a break or seeking your next opportunity. Remember, a successful legal career isn’t just about hard work; it’s also about looking after yourself along the way.
