Vacation Over, Morale Slumping? Here are 5 Ways to Get Back on Track and be Productive Again According to IPB University Psychologist

After a moment of warmth and togetherness during the Eid holiday, many people find it difficult to return to their daily routines such as work, school or college.

Psychologist and IPB University lecturer at the Faculty of Human Ecology, Nur Islamiah, MPsi, PhD explains this. In psychology, this condition is known as post-holiday depression or post-holiday blues, which is the emergence of various emotional pressures such as feelings of sadness and emptiness after the vacation ends.

“If the symptoms are more severe, this condition can develop into post-holiday depression, which is characterized by loss of motivation and interest in the usual routine, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, sleep disturbances and even a sense of hopelessness,” said the figure who is familiarly called Mrs Mia.

According to her, this phenomenon shows that the transition period after a long vacation is not always easy and can be a challenge in itself. The change from a relaxing vacation to a busy and demanding routine can feel overwhelming.

“If you experience one or more of the symptoms of post-holiday blues, it is important to be aware and take the right steps,” she said.

Mrs Mia explains how to overcome laziness and difficulty focusing after the Eid holiday and rebuild a productive routine.

1. Start Gradually

Start from the lightest task, do it gradually and consistently. “After a long holiday, don’t immediately force yourself to work with ambitious targets that usually end in disappointment,” she said.

2. Build Small Routines

The key to success that has been proven in many people to be productive again at work is to build a small but consistent routine. For example, wake up in the morning, make a to-do-list based on priorities, and use focus techniques at work such as pomodoro (work 25 minutes, rest 5 minutes).

“For the first to second day, the pomodoro set is very good and can be improved over time,” he said.

3. Reconnect with the Environment

A small step that can be done when entering work is to reconnect with the physical place of our activities, for example tidying up the table, adding small aesthetic elements such as ornamental plants or fragrances that can provide a psychological boost.

“Take advantage of the halalbihalal moment by chatting lightly with coworkers or college friends to revive a sense of togetherness and comfort in the work environment,” she explained.

However, Ms Mia reminds us not to compare ourselves with others. Be sincerely present by listening, sharing enough stories, and giving support to each other.

4. Utilize the Positive Energy of the Holidays

Vacations naturally provide an opportunity for physical and psychological recharge. According to Ms Mia, this positive energy should not be wasted. Instead of just being a sweet memory, utilize the energy as fuel to restart activities with renewed vigor, a clearer mind, and a lighter heart.

You can do this by reflecting on your experiences. For example, by writing down the three most enjoyable things experienced during the vacation and then living it.

This simple activity, says Ms Mia, can help strengthen positive emotions, increase gratitude, and instill an optimistic mindset when returning to the routine. “Reflection like this also helps the brain store positive memories as a source of long-term motivation,” she said.

Another step is to bring good habits from vacation into the routine. For example, during vacation we eat more often with family, chat without rushing, or enjoy time without many digital distractions.

“These simple things can be a source of calm and emotional balance if brought into the daily routine, even if done in a version adapted to the post-holiday rhythm,” she said.

5. Consult a Professional

The post-holiday period can be challenging. But with the right psychological understanding and the application of simple steps, the feeling of heaviness and laziness can be turned into a new start that is more energetic and productive.

However, Ms Mia cautioned that if the discomfort persists and starts to interfere with daily life, there is nothing wrong with consulting a professional. (AS) (IAAS/LAN)