Strategies for Enhancing Post-Holiday Productivity and Well-being

Following holiday periods, individuals may experience reduced energy levels and decreased productivity. Strategies exist to facilitate a return to regular routines and activity levels. Planning and Task Management Chloe Thomas, a women's health, nutrition, and mindset coach, recommends planning tasks weekly. This involves outlining tasks and creating a schedule for structure. Beth Benatti Kennedy, a leadership and team coach and resiliency expert, suggests creating a list of important tasks for work to alleviate mental load. Thomas further advises focusing on smaller, manageable tasks rather than large ones, stating that achieving small goals can maintain motivation and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed. E.M. Austen, author of "SMARTER: 10 Lessons For A More Productive And Less Stressed Life," proposes the 'ten-second test.' This method suggests completing any task immediately if it can be done within 10 seconds, aiming to reduce procrastination and mental clutter from minor items. Environmental and Behavioral Adjustments Thomas recommends setting specific daily times for social media or television use. She suggests allocating other time to activities such as reading, breathwork, cooking, or tidying, noting that undirected scrolling can contribute to sluggishness. Re-establishing a consistent sleep schedule is advised by Thomas. This involves adjusting wake-up and bedtime by 15-30 minute increments daily to normalize the sleep pattern. Thomas also recommends daily outdoor exposure for at least 15 minutes. This is stated to assist in regulating sleep cycles and providing vitamin D, which supports mental well-being. To minimize interruptions, Austen suggests creating a focused work environment by closing unnecessary tabs and applications, such as inboxes and messengers, when concentrating on specific tasks like document creation. Activity Integration Austen proposes linking desired activities with less desired ones. As an example, she describes committing to watching a specific television program only while at the gym, which reportedly increased her gym attendance. Thomas advises incorporating moderate physical activity. She suggests exercising with a friend or family member for added motivation. Activities recommended include walking, yoga, light jogging, or dancing to music.