Get Back into Your Groove
GETTING back to work after a long weekend itself is hard; imagine doing the same after a couple of months or even years! It would be a bit like what Rip Van Winkle must have felt when he woke up 100 years later! Everything seems different for what was, is no more. It's like being a fresher again except that you're older. Getting back into the groove is not as simple as you think. Like a new employee, you may have to prove your worth all over again.
If you're returning to work in the same organisation, don't walk in expecting things to be the same. If they are, then it could be a sign of stagnation rather than a pleasant surprise! These days, offices can be erected overnight and entire departments transferred halfway around the globe within a week. Or, people could be sitting at the same workstation for three years and yet have worked for three different companies! Takeovers, mergers, restructuring, downsizing, relocation, layoffs and other such events are the norm of the day. So, a sense of disorientation is not unusual. People you knew well would have left and new ones would have taken their place. Even the rules you were familiar with would have changed. It's like suffering from amnesia. The reason for the sabbatical could be anything - higher education, illness, maternity leave or just plain break from work - but the trauma related to getting back into the swing of things is more or less the same. If you've been away on a study trip, you may want to implement and exhibit your newly acquired knowledge. But, beware; if you appear too eager, your enthusiasm could be construed as show-off. Envy may even make people hostile and resist your ideas.
Also, don't expect to be received with open arms. Don't expect anyone to remember your past achievements and accolades. Don't expect the hierarchy to remain the same. In your absence, your co-worker would have easily become your senior! In short, don't expect anything earth shattering. Coping with change is hard; so how does one cope with readjustment? Some tips:
Expect changes - Accept the fact that things will change and need to change. Be prepared to work in a new and different environment by keeping your mind open and your attitude positive. Don't cling to the notion of `good ol' times'; the only way to grow is to adapt yourself to the flow
Take it easy - Don't be in a rush to get into the routine immediately and make up for the lost time. Readjust gradually. Sudden lifestyle changes can upset your equilibrium. Hence, pace your work in accordance with your surroundings and slowly reorient yourself. Prove your worth by demonstrating how valuable you still are by showing how things can be done better
Get on top of things - Familiarise yourself with the new way of functioning and learn what you do not know. Whether it's technology or grapevine, stay `in the loop'. Upgrade your information system and get into the swing of things by getting involved. Participate in more and more activities. Try and fit in, once again
Chin up - Don't lose your confidence. This is only a transitory phase and very soon you will settle down. Remember your past successes and work towards realising your potential
Regain trust - Meet with your seniors and colleagues who are sympathetic enough to help make this transition easier. Let them know of your apprehensions and feelings. Talk to them openly and honestly
Adjusting to a new environment can be overwhelming, challenging and sometimes even traumatic. However, maintaining a good attitude, flexible outlook and an open mind will help you ease back to the comfort of familiarity.
SALMA ALIAKBAR
faqs@cnkonline.com
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