Feeling Overwhelmed Already? Let’s Flip That Script.

As the calendar flips to February, it's tempting to join the chorus of conversations here on lamenting the exhaustion of returning to work post-summer holidays.

The risk? The more you read about it, the worse you might feel.

I'm not dismissing how you're feeling, but what if you reframed the narrative? Instead of succumbing to overwhelm, you can intentionally carry the revitalised energy from your holidays into the coming months.

I'm not dismissing how you're feeling, but what if you reframed the narrative?

Here’s how:

1. Guard Your Thinking Time

During holidays, your mind gets the chance to wander, reflect, and explore without constraint. But back at work? It’s too easy to jump straight into back-to-back meetings and decision-making.

Make time for uninterrupted thinking each week — even if it’s just 30 minutes. Treat it as non-negotiable.

What surfaced during your break that’s worth exploring further?

2. Be Intentional About Your Day

Holidays are about deliberate choices — a morning swim, reading on the verandah, or just sitting and watching the world go by.

Back at work, set purposeful goals for the week that align with your leadership legacy.

Ask yourself: What impact do I want to create today?

3. Prioritise Physical and Mental Recovery During the Day

Restoration isn’t just for holidays. I bet you moved a lot more while you were away — walking, swimming, or just pottering around.

Build micro-breaks into your workday: stand up, stretch, or even gaze out a window. One leader I know refuses to keep a water bottle on her desk. Every hour, she gets up, walks to the kitchen, and drinks a glass of water. That simple movement refreshes her focus.

4. Adopt a Fresh Perspective

Holidays often expose us to new experiences and ways of thinking. Keep that curiosity alive by seeking different viewpoints.

Read outside your industry, talk to someone you wouldn’t normally connect with, or challenge long-held assumptions. Imagine that...

5. Listen to Your Inner Voice — Kindly

After a break, many leaders return with a “hit the ground running” mindset. It’s exhausting and often unsustainable.

Instead, acknowledge what’s truly possible in a single day, week, or month. As I’ve shared before, reframing unhelpful self-talk is essential.

Instead of thinking, I need to catch up on everything now, ask, What’s the next best step I can take today?

Make time for uninterrupted thinking each week — even if it’s just 30 minutes. Treat it as non-negotiable.

Leadership thrives on intention, not frenzy. If your refreshed holiday self has begun to fade, pause and ask:

What did I learn about myself on holiday that I can continue practising now?

Carrying that insight forward will help you maintain the energy, balance, and perspective needed to lead well throughout the year.

Go gently and lead with purpose.