HEALTH CHECK

Post-pandemic job jitters

Dani Wawryk
June 29, 2021

5 tips for returning to work after COVID-19

The prospect may mean excitement and relief, sweaty palms and nerves, or maybe your feelings change depending on the moment. Half of all Vendastians are contending with their planned return to the office and no two experiences are the same.

Are you feeling anxious?

The Limeade Institute released an online survey involving office workers in five different countries in April. It aimed to determine employees’ feelings about going back to work. Every single person among the 4,553 surveyed reported feeling anxious about returning to the office. Psychologist Dr. Susan Albers calls it “reentry anxiety,” and it may be born from several different challenges: A change in flexibility, new commute, socializing with colleagues or wearing a mask.

Source: Limeade Institute

Five tips for your return

For Vendastians, there are the added challenges of a new office environment and more than 100 new colleagues. Whether you’re feeling concerned or you’re thrilled to return, consider these suggestions for making the transition easier:

Knowledge is power

Shine as much light on the situation as you can. Write down any questions you have about your return to work and bring them up with your manager at your next weekly one-on-one meeting. Timelines on Vendasta’s plans are becoming clearer every day, so don’t be afraid to ask the same question twice.

2. Set boundaries

If your return to work impacts other people in your home, chat with them and ensure they understand how it might affect the day-to-day. You should also consider what you’re comfortable with once you get to the office. Will you sit with others at lunch? Would you prefer to enjoy your sandwich at home? Are after-work drinks in or out? Establish boundaries that help put you at ease.

3. Build a plan

Vendastians are great planners. For your return to work, consider:

Driving, busing, biking, or walking your route before your return date.
Deciding on daily or monthly parking. Book a spot, download the parking app, and enter your credit card information and license plate in advance.
Making a checklist of the equipment and supplies you need to bring with you.
Adjusting your sleep schedule.
Planning for child or pet care.
Reading Vendasta’s COVID-19 Policy to ensure you understand the health and safety expectations at the office.

4. Check-in with yourself

Consider journaling about your thoughts and feelings as the date approaches. Identifying your emotions in writing is a powerful way to process a situation. Visualization may also help: Close your eyes and imagine pouring your morning coffee in the break room before sitting down at your new desk in the sunny, freshly renovated space.

5. Make it an event

Help create a positive experience for yourself. After all, coming back to work after a pandemic is a major milestone. You could buy a new tie or outfit, bring a plant for your desk, or plan lunch with a friend.

Reach out for help

Need more support? Check out Lumino’s Stress and Anxiety Guide where you can find helpful resources. You can also find a healthcare provider near you using the Lumino Provider Search on your Sun Life dashboard.