Easing Back into Work after a Vacation: Essential Adjustments to Streamline Your Workday

In today's fast-paced world, taking a break can often feel like a luxury. However, recent studies suggest that not only is time off essential for our well-being, but it can also significantly boost productivity when we return to work.

According to Gallup, re-entering the workforce after a break could add a staggering $9.6 trillion to global GDP, making a strategic approach to re-entry a business imperative. The World Health Organization recognises burnout as an occupational phenomenon caused by chronic workplace stress that isn't successfully managed. This is a concern that is all too familiar for many knowledge workers, who receive an average of 117 emails and 153 Teams messages per weekday.

The blur between work and rest can make readjustment especially jarring after vacation. To combat this, recommended strategies include setting clear boundaries for work hours, prioritising tasks effectively, using digital tools mindfully to avoid overload, taking regular breaks, and fostering open communication about workload and expectations.

One of the biggest challenges upon returning to work is the deluge of digital communication. Implementing a strategic approach to tackling the inbox can help regain control quickly. Setting boundaries early, such as finishing at your usual time or avoiding evening inbox checks, protects the rest you've gained.

Another significant stressor is the increase in meetings, with a 16% increase in meetings after 8 p.m. compared to the previous year. Protecting mental space from meetings by declining or postponing non-essential ones can boost productivity and lower stress.

Vacations have proven benefits, such as boosting sleep, reducing sedentary time, and improving overall well-being. Reintroducing vacation habits like daily walks or better sleep can maintain these benefits. Re-establishing a work rhythm with rituals can rebuild momentum and create structure.

A 2025 meta-analysis in the Journal of Applied Psychology confirmed that vacations provide a larger, longer-lasting boost to well-being than previously assumed, particularly when workers truly disconnect from emails. Creating a "soft landing" day can help reduce stress and give time to mentally transition from holiday to work mode.

Prioritising connection with colleagues can ease the psychological gap between holiday and work. Evenings and weekends are now an extension of the workday for many workers, making setting boundaries even more important.

In conclusion, managing the post-vacation slump requires a strategic approach. By setting clear boundaries, prioritising tasks, disconnecting from digital communication, and re-establishing work routines, we can ensure a smooth re-entry and maintain the benefits of our time off.