Easing back into work post-vacation
I recently got back from a month long vacation and this is how I’m easing back into PhD work
1. Get organized - I start by making a to do list of all the tasks I know I either need to get done or would like to get done in the next month (or however far ahead you need to plan). After I get everything out of my brain and onto paper, I organize tasks using a color-coded system. I use orange for tasks that I need to get done asap. Yellow is for tasks that can get done over the next 2-3 weeks. And green are tasks that can wait until the end of the month. By doing this, I have a clear idea of what I should focus on in what order.
2. Start with “easier” tasks - idk about yall, but I’m someone who gets motivation from being able to check things off my to do list. The more I check off, the more motivated I am to do more. So to help build momentum, I like to start with tasks I know I’ll be able to get done quickly, like sending and responding to emails or updating my calendar. The more of these I can get checked off earlier in my day, the more motivated I’ll feel to tackle any of the things that I know might take me a bit more time and energy
3. Take lots of breaks - something I love doing is the Pomodoro method. If you haven’t heard of this before, it’s basically a work method where you do work and take breaks for predetermined periods of time. So you could work for 25mins with a 5min break. 45mins with a 15min break, whatever you think is best for you. And you do this for 3 or 4 rounds before you take a longer break like 30mins or an hour. Not only does this help me stay focused but it also makes sure that I actually stop to take regular breaks so I’m not overworking and get overwhelmed.
4. Don’t do too much too soon if you can help it - this one is self explanatory. I just got back from vacation. My brain was practically asleep for 30 days. So I want to take my time and ease back into my regular work routine to minimize stress. If I just hit the ground running, my anxiety level is bound to sky rocket. So I give myself permission to spread my tasks out over time.
Remember, you deserve rest and it’s ok to take things slow 💛