Rebooting After the Summer Break: How to Get Back Into Work Mode

Coming back to work after the summer holidays can feel like a cold splash of reality. The inbox is overflowing, meetings are piling up, and that vacation mindset is still lingering. But here’s the thing—getting back into work mode doesn’t have to feel like a grind. As an executive coach in San Francisco, I’ve seen how a few small shifts can help professionals get back into their groove after a break.

1. Embrace the Transition
   First off, give yourself some grace. Coming back from vacation isn’t just about catching up on emails. It’s about mentally shifting gears. Instead of forcing yourself to go 0 to 100, allow for a gentle transition and recognize that it's normal to feel out of sync at first.

2. Reconnect with Your People
   Summer tends to create a natural pause in team dynamics, so use this time to reconnect with your colleagues. Schedule a coffee chat or a quick check-in. These moments aren’t just about work; they’re about reigniting the spark of collaboration and camaraderie that keeps your team strong.

3. Set Manageable, Short-term Goals
   Don’t try to tackle everything on day one. Focus on small wins. Whether it’s getting through a handful of emails or finishing up one project, setting short-term goals helps you ease back into productivity without the overwhelm.

4. Reframe Your Mindset
   Instead of seeing this transition as the end of your summer freedom, see it as a fresh start. Your break likely gave you some perspective—now is the perfect time to channel that into your work, re-prioritize, and get excited about what’s next.

Returning to work after a break doesn’t have to feel like pulling teeth. With a little intention and some self-compassion, you can regain your momentum and set yourself up for success. Need help with a bigger career transition or finding your focus? Let’s talk about how coaching can support you.

Let’s chat.