Returning Back to Work After the COVID Pandemic

As the state of California slowly starts lifting many COVID-19 restrictions, many worry what life will be like once things return back to normal while others worry if it is even safe to do so. Some dread the date they have to return back to the office and feeling uncomfortable about leaving the safety of their own home to an environment filled with many uncertainties. However, here are some information and tips on how to make adjusting back into the office a more easier and pleasant experience. 

Alhough it will be difficult to give up the flexability and ease of working from home, returning to the office can be a good thing for some, there are several advantages that of resuming work in an office that the home environment lacks. Some of the perks include seeing your favorite coworkers especially during a time of loneliness that many have experienced, free treats in the kitchen, having fewer distractions, having a firmer boundary between work and home, and having a place to focus on work related responsibilities. 

How to Start Mentally Preparing:

• Cleaning up your office space after being left vacant for the whole year can lead to a pleasing, clean and organized environment which is good for your mental health. 
• Clean environments reduce cortisol levels. 
• Bringing in a plant into the office has been proven to reduce stress levels and increase productivity by 15%. 

Give your Wordrobe a Makeover:

• When you look good you feel good.
• Studies have shown that work attires makes us feel confident and professional 
• Having the right outfit can make you feel more comfortable and aid in the transition. 

Establish a Better Sleeping Schedule:

• Feeling well rested is crucial for those long days in the office. 
• Seven to nine hours have been shown to help people be more productive. 
• Getting enough sleep can also help reduce emotional eating and buffer you emotionally and physically against stress. 

Practice Self Care:

• Ensuring you look and feel good can help one adjust to the stress of change.
• Stock your desk with things that could help relieve stress like a stress ball, a calming essential oil diffuser, or your favorite snack.
• Following a healthy lifestyle with timely meals, consistent sleep, adequate physical activity, and relaxation time can help throughout the process. 

Make it clear to your employer and coworkers that safety on the job is very important to you since safety is key. If you are still experiencing a hard time adjusting and having severe anxiety making it difficult for you to complete the tasks, seek help from a mental health professional.