5 Physical and Mental Health Tips for Managing Stress Through Change

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(Photo : 5 Physical and Mental Health Tips for Managing Stress Through Change)

As companies recall to the office the last groups of remote workers, many are considering how to make the transition as painless as possible. If you thought transitioning to remote work was difficult, you may be surprised to discover that moving back to on-site work can be even more challenging.

Yes, you know desk naps are frowned upon. But there is so much more to be aware of as you prepare to emerge from your pandemic cocoon and spread your wings at the office once again. Let's look at a few physical and mental health tips that can make the transition easier.

1. Focus on the Positives

Whether you're returning to the office full time or only a few days per week, the disruption to your schedule is real. Whereas you were working from home with minimal distractions or manageable distractions, now you may be heading back into an office with cubicles or, at the very least, interacting with more people throughout the day than you've become accustomed to. How can you lessen the stress?

Start by focusing on the positives that come with returning to the office. Benefits may include reestablishing connections with colleagues whose company you genuinely missed during the pandemic, increased productivity and creativity, and having firmer work-life boundaries once again.

Also, "it's normal to experience some social anxiety when contemplating your return to the office," says Dr. Sergey Voskin, Founder of Goals Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery. "Combat this anxiety by interacting with individuals or small groups instead of large teams at first. Focus on those colleagues who have been most supportive in the past."

2. Acknowledge the Feelings of Loss

While focusing on the positives is a good strategy, it's also important to acknowledge any feelings of loss. No one should feel guilty for not being totally thrilled about returning to the office. You are likely losing desirable aspects of working from home such as more flexible hours and not having to commute. So, acknowledge those feelings, rather than simply slapping a smile on your face.

3. Develop a Plan to Respect Personal Boundaries

Another benefit of the pandemic is that the pause in our normal routines has given us some perspective on what feels safe, comfortable, and acceptable for us personally. Social norms like shaking hands or hugging have fallen by the wayside and this reset provides an opportunity for you to set your own personal boundaries and model those behaviors for your co-workers. 

"You may want to create a list of personal boundaries for yourself and come up with some 'talking points' you can use when someone infringes on one of your boundaries," says Dr. Voskin. Having this plan in mind will give you the confidence to follow through.

Also, if you really flourished while working from home, come up with a plan to work remotely a few days per week and confidently present it to your supervisor. Voice your desire to come up with a plan that benefits the company and your supervisor. Explain, in precise terms, why you believe working from home makes you more efficient and productive. This can be a powerful way to discover your inner resolve and express it while regaining some control over your time.

4. Be Vigilant About Self-Care

Another way to reduce stress during times of change is to practice self-care. But this is most effective when we're intentional, create a self-care routine, and stick to it. For example, schedule into your day: healthy meals at regular times, consistent sleep time, regular physical activity, and relaxation time. Additionally, set aside time to take breaks at work to give yourself a chance to destress and rejuvenate.

Being vigilant about self-care also encourages you to accept all aspects of yourself. "If you're artistic, find ways to express your artistic side," says Dr. Voskin. "If you aren't content with the image you see reflected back at you in the mirror, consider whether cosmetic surgery or other aesthetic procedures might make you feel like the best version of yourself."

After spending more than a year locked down at home, many feel a strong drive toward reinvention of the self. Says Dr. Voskin, "I believe we'll look back on this time as a mini-renaissance. I see plastic and cosmetic surgery as a medium of artistic expression. Self-care is a big part of the motivation of my clients and we support that. You want to feel good about yourself when looking in the mirror"

5. Embrace the Imperfection

Finally, be kind to yourself and embrace whatever you see as "imperfections." It's important not to put pressure on yourself to return to peak productivity levels immediately. In some sense, we're all starting fresh. 

Sure, going back to old expectations is certainly an option, but there are so many other options to consider. Life and work will likely feel a little messy for a while as we figure out what the new normal will look like. But keep in mind that working on-site will feel normal again soon. Until then, embrace the messy imperfection of doing something new.

The transition back to the office after working remotely for more than a year won't be easy, but with these five tips, you can make your mental and physical health a top priority!

About Goals Plastic Surgery:

Goals Plastic Surgery is a fast-growing aesthetic and plastic surgery chain that offers affordable rates that appeal to people at all income levels. Their mission is to keep their services affordable and accessible to all income levels while still keeping a high-quality of care. Click here to learn more: https://goalsplasticsurgery.com/.