Post holiday work: Feeling your best getting back to the grind.

Anyone who works in schools will tell you that August through December is a whirlwind. When you finally get to winter break, it's like crossing the finish line of a marathon. Phew!

Going back to work after a break is tough—especially if you live in part of the country where January weather is gray. Here are a few tips to set our therapists up for success.

Don’t confuse the feeling of the transition with being sad.

Remind yourself that you know how to do your job, and you do it well. Remember that you have co-workers who are friends. Many of your students are going to be so happy to see you.

Engage your colleagues.

Before the first day back to work, send a text to your work bestie and make a pact to check in with each other throughout the first week post-break.

Plan to bring a treat for your team or pack a joke book with you so you can lighten the mood for those also struggling to regain momentum.

Choose a day to bring a coworker a surprise coffee. Brightening someone else’s morning can help your mood.

Get the week off on a positive note.

Throughout the week, make sure you pack yourself a good lunch with a treat. No need to go cold turkey from holiday foods to New Year’s Resolutions.

Plan attire that will make you feel good. Some people prefer comfy clothes, but others need to dress up to set the tone for a successful work week. 

Plan to do something fun toward the end of the week. This may be a craft, a movie night, a home spa night, or anything that you will look forward to doing.

When you get to the weekend, reflect.

Was it as bad as your mind told you it would be, or did you get right back into the groove? Did you think of ways to keep away the January blues while powering through week one? Share those ideas with your work bestie and keep that energy flowing.

As hard as it may be to return to work, know that you are much appreciated and the work you are doing matters, so just keep going.

Grow your career with Kelly Pediatric Therapy.

At Kelly Pediatric Therapy we work with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, psychologists, mental health professionals, and other clinicians to help you find the right school-based placements.

If you're looking to move forward in your professional career in a way that supports growth, balance, and impact—consider working with us as a school-based therapist.

When you work with Kelly Pediatric Therapy, you’ll enjoy competitive pay, compensation for documentation, access to mentorship, free professional development, and work-free nights, weekends, and holidays. 

Learn more about joining our team.