KEY POINTS:
Many of us are returning to work today after a hard earned summer break, and while New Year's resolutions may have inspired you to face the year with renewed vigour, it's still hard to head back to the office when the country's experiencing its best summer in years.
But the show must go on, as they say. So for those of you helping to keep the economy ticking over, here are our top tips for easing back into work:
* Eat a decent breakfast: Sleep-ins and lazy lunches are a part of being on holiday, but a good meal will kick start your day and help you get back into your daily routine.
* Get out and about at lunchtime: Take a walk - even if it's just for 10 minutes. The dose of sunshine and fresh air will reinvigorate you and set you up for the afternoon.
* Smile: Chances are those around you would also rather be at the beach and there's something to be said for solidarity.
* Tidy your desk: If you didn't get a chance to do a spot of spring cleaning pre-Christmas, make it a New Year's priority. Work is likely to be much more enjoyable if you don't have to sort through all of last year's clutter everytime you want to find something. The same goes for your email inbox. Clear it out asap and make a resolution to reply to emails as they arrive this year.
* Learn a new name: If you work in a large office - even if you've been there a long time - it's likely there are some people you haven't been introduced to. Make the effort to get to know them. You never know, it could be the start of a beautiful friendship.
* Leave on time: Yes, work's important, but so is your leisure time. Make the most of the long summer evenings by heading to the beach for a swim or enjoying barbecues with friends and family. You'll feel better for it the following day.
* Plan your next holiday: If you really can't stand being back at work, start exploring your options for breaks later in the year. There's nothing like the prospect of another vacation to cheer you up.
- NZ HERALD STAFF
