With returns to offices, onsite gatherings and increasing discussions to meet our colleagues face to face, this may carry a touch of unease and doubt. It may prompt questions like:

What time did I used to leave the house? What bus/train departure time do I need? Do I have my public transport card? What if there’s changed traffic conditions on the road? What do I do about lunch? What do I wear?!?

Firstly, it’s normal and OK to feel uneasy and anxious, you are guaranteed not to be alone here. So, what can we do to emotionally and mentally to prepare for getting back into an office?

Be kind to yourself and others. The last two years have been a challenge and people have experienced the pandemic differently. Be respectful of others and have open discussions around what you and others require from one another.

Sleep. Ensure you return to healthy sleeping patterns that support an earlier wake up time, do this in advanced of going into an office.

Meditation, gratitude, mindfulness. To help manage any anxiety, emotions and thoughts, care for your mental state. Meditation and mindfulness can help to ground, calm, and relax. Take a couple of minutes in the morning to practice gratitude – what are three things you are grateful for today? – can help promote a positive mindset.

Plan your day with purpose and intent. Know what meetings, people interactions and tasks you will focus on while in the office, have a plan and reflect on how you see the day playing out. Office and home environments may have varying contrast, consider what adjustments you may need to make.

Prepare days in advance! I cannot recommend this highly enough.

Check your travel route, check your public transport card, and top up if needed, remind yourself of your public transport timetable. A weekend before, have a look at your wardrobe for appropriate attire, you’ll have the weekend to go shopping if required to replace slippers with shoes. Arrange an office buddy for additional support and a familiar face, you may wish to take lunch together and get acquainted with your surroundings or decide to take a packed lunch. Find out what you need to be aware of on arrival. Then before you leave, double check the weather and traffic/public transport conditions.

Above all else, remember it’s ok to feel mixed emotions. Be kind and be prepared.