Why Post-Holiday Realigning Matters
The beautiful sunsets, special time with friends and family, and the exhilarating European adventures (including a trip to Disneyland, Paris) – my recent holiday was a true escape from the everyday routine. It revitalised my spirit, recharged my energy, and gave me space for some deep self-reflection. But as I return to my responsibilities after this enriching European sojourn, I look in the mirror and wonder: How can I channel the vibrant post-holiday energy I seem to have into a smooth re-entry into the dynamic/chaotic world of work?
How about we start with the “why” of returning to work? Returning from a vacation can sometimes be accompanied by a stomach-churning feeling of dread or apprehension, particularly when work emails and “I’ll do that when I get back” await your return. However, post-holiday realigning is essential for you as a leader and here’s why:
- Refreshed Perspective: Vacations offer a break from routine and allow you to view your leadership role from a fresh perspective. This newfound clarity can lead to innovative ideas and solutions.
- Energy Boost: A well-rested leader is a more effective leader. The energy gained from a holiday can be harnessed to tackle challenges, make strategic decisions, and help you lead with enthusiasm.
- Positive Influence: Your renewed energy and positivity after a vacation can be contagious. It can inspire your team, boost morale, and create a more vibrant work atmosphere.
Sometimes, it’s easier said than done, so here are three ways to start your realigning process.
Tip 1: Reflect and Reset Your Priorities
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and forget the insights you gained while away. The first step in realigning yourself is to reflect on what truly matters.
Journal Your Reflections: Spend some time journaling about your holiday experiences. What were the highlights? What did you learn about yourself and your leadership style during this time?
Set New Priorities: Use your reflections to reset your leadership priorities. Are there areas where you can delegate more? Are there projects that need a fresh approach? Identify what should take precedence in the coming weeks.
Visualise Success: Visualising success is a powerful tool. Imagine the positive impact your leadership can have.
Tip 2: Reconnect and Communicate with Your Team
Effective leadership is built on strong relationships and open communication. Returning from a holiday is ideal for reconnecting with your team and ensuring everyone is still aligned.
Hold a Team Meeting: Schedule a meeting with your team to catch up and discuss any developments in your absence. Use this as an opportunity to reiterate your team’s goals and expectations.
Listen Actively: Pay close attention to their feedback and concerns. Listening actively fosters trust and demonstrates your commitment to their growth and well-being.
Share Your Insights: Don’t keep your holiday reflections to yourself. Share the valuable lessons you’ve learned with your team. Transparency about your journey can inspire them to embrace their growth; however, don’t go too far, as there’s nothing more demoralising than evangelical reflections.
Tip 3: Create a Sustainable Routine
One of the biggest challenges post-holidays is maintaining the sense of balance and well-being you experienced during your time off. You must create a sustainable routine that harmoniously blends work and personal life and eases you back into work.
Prioritise Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Whether exercise, meditation or reading a book, prioritise time for activities that nourish your well-being.
Time Management: Implement effective time management techniques to optimise your productivity. There are many tools out there that can help you categorise tasks by urgency and importance so you’re not spending time on the wrong thing.
Delegate and Empower: Trust your team to take on responsibilities. Delegating reduces your workload and empowers your team members to develop new skills and take ownership.
Embrace the Post-Holiday Realigning Ritual
Returning from a holiday as a leader doesn’t have to be daunting. Instead, it can be an opportunity for transformation and growth. By reflecting on your experiences, reconnecting with your team, and creating a sustainable routine, you can harness the energy and clarity gained during your break to drive success in your leadership role. Otherwise, you could find yourself chasing your tail and, in a few days, wondering if you’d had a break at all.
The post-holiday realignment ritual is not just about returning to work; it’s about returning as a better, more focused, and more balanced leader. Embrace it! What are you like when you get back from leave? How long does it take before you forget you’ve been on leave?
Remember, we’re all on this learning journey, so regardless of your position, experience, or expertise, we should aim to take advantage of opportunities to learn and grow.