A Guide To Surviving The First Month Back In The Office

Welcome to the end of January 2024! As we bid farewell to the first month back in the office after the holiday season, it’s time to take a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve embarked upon. The transition from festive holidays to office routines can be challenging, but as resilient admin professionals, we’ve not only survived but thrived. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips to help you navigate the complexities of returning to the office and ensure a successful year ahead.

Reconnect With Your Workspace

Coming back to the office might feel like stepping into a new world (anybody else forget their password when they got back?). Take some time to reacquaint yourself with your workspace. Organise your desk, declutter, and create a comfortable and efficient environment that encourages productivity.

Maintain Open Communication

Effective communication is essential in a collaborative workplace. Keep the lines of communication open with your colleagues and executives. Regular check-ins can help ensure everyone is on the same page.

Mindfulness & Stress Management

Practice mindfulness and stress management techniques regularly. Activities like meditation or deep breathing exercises can help you stay calm and focused during demanding moments. Have you listened to Rachael Bonetti’s “What It Means To Be Well” podcast yet? Do yourself a favour and have a listen HERE. 

Set Realistic Expectations

Be realistic about what you can accomplish in a day. Avoid overloading your to-do list. Prioritise tasks and focus on completing them with quality rather than quantity.

Stay Informed

Keep yourself informed about industry trends and developments. Subscribe to relevant newsletters, blogs, or publications to stay ahead of the curve in your field. If you’re not yet receiving our Newsletter – you can sign up HERE. 

Balance Workload

Pay attention to your workload and be proactive about delegating tasks when necessary. Don’t hesitate to communicate with your executive if you feel overwhelmed.

Continuous Self-Assessment

Periodically assess your skills, goals, and career trajectory. Regular self-assessment helps you stay aligned with your aspirations and make necessary adjustments.

Seek Support and Mentorship

If you encounter challenges, don’t hesitate to seek support or mentorship. Colleagues or supervisors can provide guidance, share insights, and offer solutions to help you overcome obstacles. If you haven’t yet signed up to the Admin Avenues upcoming mentor program, do so HERE.

Celebrate Small Wins

Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Recognising your achievements boosts motivation and provides a sense of progress. Keep a log of your small wins so you can refer back to them when you need a boost or points to refer to in your review throughout the year. 

Take Care of Yourself

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, prioritise self-care. Maintain a healthy work-life balance, get adequate rest, move your body and practice self-compassion. Your well-being is essential for sustaining your professional excellence, especially in this profession. 

Surviving the first month back in the office is a testament to your resilience and adaptability as an admin professional. By reacquainting yourself with your workspace, setting clear goals, and embracing effective time management, you’re well on your way to a successful year ahead. Remember to seek support when needed and invest in your professional growth. Most importantly, prioritise self-care to maintain your physical and mental well-being. Here’s to a productive and fulfilling rest of 2024!