After the mass exodus from the land of cubicles in 2020, millions are returning to offices in 2021. For those who have relished their commute-free lifestyle, there’s a feeling of dread and a hope for negotiating a permanent remote (or at least hybrid) arrangement. For others who have found working from home challenging, there’s anticipation but still a twinge of uncertainty about how life will work when they’re back at work.
Preparing for Your First Day Back at the Office
There are a multitude of effective routines that were lost in the sudden shift to remote work during the pandemic. As many workers prepare for the return to offices, they need to reclaim the routines they lost and manage their time well.
Here are some recommended steps to reduce trepidation. A lot has changed in the past year. Picture your workday and logistical details, from when you wake to what you eat, pack, and wear. Put it on paper, and then check your assumptions. Look at the routines you’ve taken part of during the pandemic — exercise and chores — and identify where they should fall in your new schedule. Consolidate all this information into a single spot. Finally, think about any larger logistics you need to settle before your return to work, like renewing parking passes, planning your transit route, and preparing meals.