4 Tips to Build Resilience as your Office Re-opens

For many of us, our worlds are changing yet again as some offices begin to set ‘reopening’ dates. We are having to say goodbye to many months of working from home, and the new routines we have created. For most, the anticipation of transitions can bring on a variety of big feelings. Luckily, there are tips and  tools that one can implement to help build resilience during this phase of change.

1. Be prepared: As tedious as ‘all company’ emails are, they can provide helpful information about what to expect. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about cleaning protocols, in-office schedules, supervisors expectations, how to secure the equipment you need and anything else that you may be wondering about that you imagine will make you feel safe and prepared in your transition back into your work space. It’s likely that the office won’t be like what it was before and knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety. 
2. Routine Routine Routine. If you’ve been working from home you may have had the luxury of sleeping in, zero commute time and casual attire. Bringing back the morning rituals and implementation of structure can be helpful to get yourself mentally prepared to return to the office. In the first few days or weeks, give yourself extra time. For many, it’s been over a year since we’ve had to leave the house for work. Waking up 15 minutes earlier will give you a cushion to run back for that thing you forgot. Being able to be mindful, and not rushing will help reduce stress. 
3. Validate your own feelings. Some of us are grieving the flexibility of working from home. Some of us are anxious about being around large numbers of people. Some of us are excited to get out of the house. Most of us have a mix of feelings. Whatever you are feeling; IT IS OK. Reminding yourself that your feelings are valid will help you be more centered and grounded as you return to the office. 
4. Self care. Self care. Self care. Take breaks, take walks, journal, breathe, talk to yourself, get facetime with co-workers who’s cameras have been off (or maybe you are that co-worker). Do what you need to do to get through the day. Acknowledging your limits and taking care of yourself will make your transition easier. 

*Remember many many people are in a similar situation* Most of us are having big feelings about this transition. You’ve got this. You are resilient and you can manage this transition.