Navigating the Transition: Easing Back into the Flow

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them — that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” — Lao Tzu

This year, for the first time, rather than panicking over and resisting the natural pause that seems to happen in my business over July and August, I decided to lean into the pause and take some proper time off.

Radical.

And much-needed.

Easing Back In

Reintegrating into work and daily life after an extended break can be challenging. It’s like trying to start a stationary object moving again. Often, when I’m caught up in a frenzy of overachieving, I expect myself to go from zero to a hundred miles per hour instantly, but life doesn’t work that way and neither do I. I’m not a Ferrari and even they take a few seconds to accelerate. So, I’m reminding myself of the importance of taking it easy, pacing myself, and showing myself kindness during this transition.

Reintroducing Structure

One thing that has proven immensely helpful is slowly reintroducing structure into my life. Instead of rushing back into a strict routine, I’m taking small steps. For instance, I’ve set a scheduled time to wake up, but I’m not pressuring myself to jump right back into my morning practice. Instead, I’ve created a cosy corner in my bedroom where I can spend a few peaceful moments with my husband and cats each morning.

Creating markers for myself during the week, like designating Friday as my “learning day,” is another way I’m reintroducing structure. But I’m avoiding piling too many expectations on myself beyond the basics. Realistic minimums are key right now, knowing that I need a runway to get back up to full speed.

Giving Myself Space

In my mind, I envisaged hitting the ground running immediately after returning from my break. But, reality had different plans.

Rather than experiencing a gentle transition while overcoming jet lag post-travel, I had somehow allowed my first week back to become overwhelmed with commitments. To make matters more challenging, my period was due. Luckily, I recognised this in time to seek help, reschedule commitments (a daring move in itself), and grant myself a second chance at re-entry.

This was a significant adjustment to my expectations. Instead of rushing, I gave myself three weeks to rediscover my groove. I gifted myself the time and space to transition gradually, and I’m delighted to say that it paid off! By the third week, I was once again immersed in my work. My mind brimmed with fresh ideas and renewed energy, unlike anything I’d felt since earlier in the year. It was a lesson in trust.

So, as I ease my way back into work and life, I’m learning to pace myself, much like a marathon runner, rather than sprinting at the sound of the starting gun.

Next year I know that I need to be considering time for a break and time for re-entry.

Your Thoughts and Insights

Now, I’m eager to hear your thoughts on this topic. How do you reintegrate after taking time off, whether it’s a substantial break like mine or simply starting your day? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.

Remember, it’s entirely okay to meet yourself where you are and trust that your energy will return in due time. In the grand journey of life, remember, it’s perfectly fine to ease into things — we’ll always find our way.

Originally published at https://vixanderton.com on September 7, 2023.