As many federal workers transition back to working from the traditional office this month, it’s understandable that they are facing a whirlwind of changes. For those who were previously teleworking from home or working from alternate offices closer to it, the shift back to the office can be daunting.
The tax on your time with a full return to the office also brings a mix of emotions. Despite many teleworkers reporting working longer hours and somehow managing increased workloads when working from home, suddenly, the added burden of the daily grind of office culture is back (if, of course, your agency can find room for you!).
And let’s not even start with the challenges of navigating long commutes, parking issues, and unreliable Wi-Fi.
It’s a lot to juggle, but here are some practical tips to help you not just survive but thrive during this transitional phase.
Prepare for the Daily Commute
Let’s face it — the daily commute can be one of the most daunting aspects of returning to the office. Long drives, crowded public transportation, and the general hustle and bustle can be overwhelming.
Here’s how to make your commute more enjoyable and less stressful:
- Rock Those Comfy Walking Shoes: Invest in some stylish yet comfy kicks. Trust me, I love fashion, BUT your feet will thank you after those long walks from the parking lot or from the Metro lot!
- Try a Variety of Inspiring Podcasts & Audiobooks: Turn your commute into your personal entertainment or professional development hour. Whether it’s true crime, self-help, a new language, or tuning into an episode of Management Minutes with Mika, creating a little “me time” with your favorite podcasts or audiobooks can make those traffic jams a lot more bearable. It’s a great way to make the most of your time getting to work and might even help you feel more engaged and motivated.
- Pack Your Commute Survival Kit: Pack a small bag with essentials like a water bottle, snacks, and a portable charger so you’ll be ready for anything!
Spruce Up Your Workspace
Returning to a physical office means re-establishing a new or different workspace. Making your desk a pleasant and productive environment can significantly impact your mood and efficiency while working.
So even if you’re having to rotate workstations, try one or some of these tips to add your own personal vibe and flair:
- Get Keen on Green: A little greenery goes a long way! Bring a plant or succulent to your desk. Not only do they look good, but they also boost your mood.
- Try a Coffee Break Reunion: Schedule coffee breaks with colleagues you’ve missed. Reconnecting is a great way to ease back into office life.
- Find Your Theme Song: Curate a playlist that lifts your spirits and gets those positive endorphins flowing. Music has a way of turning mundane tasks into more joyful (and often productive) ones!
- Bring Some Photos: Surrounding yourself with photos of loved ones and cherished memories can provide a sense of connection and joy, even during the busiest workdays. These visual reminders of happy times can boost your mood, reduce stress, and make your workspace feel more like your own. Plus, they can be great conversation starters!
Make the Most of Office Time
Being back in the office offers opportunities for collaboration and social interaction, but sometimes you still need a little alone time, too.
Here’s how to plan to make the most of your time at the office:
- Deep Work Zones: Finding a quiet space to focus on deep work can be challenging in a bustling office environment. Identifying areas where you can work without interruptions is crucial for maintaining productivity. Scout out quiet areas in the building where you can focus on deep work without interruptions. Identify quiet nooks in the office or a variety of desk options where you can dive into focused work without interruptions.
- Lunchtime Adventures: Taking a break during the workday is essential for maintaining energy and productivity. Use your lunch break wisely — step outside, soak up some sun, and recharge. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a leisurely stroll in a nearby park, or simply sitting outside with a good book, getting some fresh air can do wonders for your mood and energy levels. Plus, incorporating little adventures into your day can help you return to work feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of it.
- Flex Your Work Schedule: Balancing work and personal responsibilities can be challenging, especially with the return to in-office work, but leaning on the variety of flexible work schedules can provide the necessary balance to manage both more effectively. Talk to your supervisor about the kinds of flexible work schedules that can best meet in-office mandates while allowing you the flexibility to juggle your responsibilities outside of work. Options like a 4-10 workweek, compressed schedules, or variable workdays can make a significant difference and may also inspire coworkers to think differently about work arrangements that can boost productivity, help avoid high commuting hours, and balance personal needs. By exploring these options, you can find a schedule that works best for you and your team, making the transition back to the office more manageable and less stressful.
Success Strategies for Smoother Transitions
Let’s be real: Transitioning back to the office can be a source of anxiety. Here are some simple tweaks to ease that burden:
- Outfit Planning: Choose your outfit the night before to save precious minutes in the morning rush.
- Nighttime Showers: A shower before bed can be a game changer, helping you unwind and ensuring you’re fresh for the day ahead without adding more time to your morning routine.
- Morning Jams: Start your day with some upbeat tunes to set a positive tone from the get-go.
- Backup Childcare Plans: Coordinate with friends or family for reliable childcare options. A little teamwork goes a long way!
- Flexible Work Schedules: Don’t hesitate to discuss flexible arrangements with your supervisor and be sure to use your leave when needed. Keep in mind you can also pro-rate entitlements such as FMLA use and Family Medical Care Leave. When used in tandem with flexible work schedules, you can break up your day as needed and still get the work done!
Creative Solutions: Thinking Outside the Box
Sometimes, a little creativity is all it takes to make the transition smoother. Consider finding an accountability buddy you can check in with regularly. Partnering up with a colleague to keep each other motivated and on track can make a big difference. Having someone to share goals and progress with can make the transition more manageable and less isolating.
By implementing these tips, we can navigate the return to office life more smoothly and make the most of the new normal. Remember, it’s all about finding balance and making the transition as seamless as possible. Let’s embrace this new chapter together!
What tips do you have to share that have helped lighten the load when shifting into a new in-office work arrangement?
Mika Cross is a government workplace expert. Learn more about her at www.mikacross.com.
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