Do you fear a return to the office?
What does it mean to be going back to the office after 15 months of lockdown due to Covid-19? Feeling anxious would be a natural response. After working from home, the idea of being in a busy, communal space might feel scary.
But do people want to return to the office? A return to the office feels like our new routine has been upended. Recent research in HR Magazine (May, 21) said that a quarter of UK office workers believe that returning to the office may impact their mental health in a negative way. People have enjoyed their new freedoms that remote working has allowed and many have enjoyed spending more time with their loved ones and don’t miss the daily commute.
So, from a psychological perspective, what could ease the return to the office?
Try to stay in touch with colleagues before you go back to work. This can smooth the transition to being surrounded by people again
Look after yourself before you back to the office. Do something that you find relaxing and enjoyable such as reading, yoga, or some gentle exercise
Discuss any anxieties with fellow colleagues. They might be feeling the same way, so sharing how you’re feeling may lessen your anxiety as you know you are not alone
Get a good night’s sleep
Ease yourself back into your work routine. Listen to your body and if you’re feeling stressed or tense, notice and use these feelings to slow down. Be aware of your breathing
Speak to your employer if you are finding the return difficult. The resilience of all employees has been challenged by the current situation so meeting regularly to talk about what you’re experiencing can feel supportive
There are some people who can’t wait to get back into the office. Research undertaken by Canada Life (2021) found that 58% of those who are planning to return to the office are looking forward to it. People want effortless human contact, the water cooler moments, the free coffee, a dependable printer, and of course, the spontaneity and comradery that we missed when confined to our homes.
Maybe 2021 will hopefully be the start of more experimentation in terms of work life balance. There is more openness to the idea of a hybrid workplace, allowing for some flexibility for home working, but also maintaining the physical workplace for those who need it. The anxiety around office return may lessen as you create an environment of psychological safety where you reconnect with colleagues and talk openly about how you’re experiencing your return.
