Returning from vacation has always been challenging for me. The post-vacation blues hit hard. The excitement of discovering a new place, escaping the 9-to-5 grind, and fully living in the moment is what I love most about traveling. But once I’m back, I’m overwhelmed with the mountain of urgent emails, causing my stress levels to skyrocket. It leaves me wishing I could get back to that happy vacation bubble.
I realize that being able to travel is a privilege, and it may sound like I’m complaining, but I think these feelings are normal. If we lived every day like it was a vacation, the joy and anticipation that comes with taking a break wouldn’t exist.
Over time, I’ve found a few things that help me navigate those “off weeks” — whether it’s the week after vacation, after visiting a long-distance friend, or just a week when life feels heavier than usual.
1. Ease back into your routine
Having a routine to fall back on helps me reset. I avoid hitting the snooze button and make sure I’m up at 6 AM for my morning workout. I get back into my morning journaling and fit in a meditation. Starting my day this way sets the tone and gets me back on track.
2. Morning Movement
On days I skip a morning workout, I notice a drop in energy and motivation. During an off week, it’s harder to push myself, but getting that morning movement in—even a short session—boosts my serotonin levels and leaves me feeling accomplished.
3. Take a midday break
I find my “off weeks” are usually the weeks where my stress levels are high and I’m feeling overwhelmed. When I have those types of weeks I remind myself to walk away from my desk and focus my mind on something else. Whether it’s a walk, reading a book, or sitting outside for a few minutes, these breaks clear my mind and help me recharge.
4. Surround yourself with positive energy
When I’m stuck in my own head, being around positive people or calling a friend helps lift my mood. It’s a simple way to take my mind off whatever’s causing stress, and I always feel better afterward.
5. Let go of the endless to-do lists
I often joke that my days feel like one giant to-do list. But during an off week, that endless checklist can be overwhelming, leaving me stressed about not having enough time in the day. I’ve learned to remind myself that everything important will get done—and there’s no need to stress so much.
6. Give yourself grace
It’s easy to be hard on ourselves during tough days, but it’s important to remember it’s okay to have them. Not every day will be great, and that’s normal. The hard days make us appreciate the good ones. So, when you’re having another off day or week, give yourself grace and remember tomorrow is a fresh start.
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