This is the best way to go back to ‘normal’ after the holidays | Family

After a wonderful holiday you plop your suitcases in the hallway. What now?
“The feeling of having to step back into the hustle and bustle can be oppressive. Everything was nice and orderly in your holiday home. No one had to look for the cutlery or think where the remote control was. It’s different at home, with all the stuff we have that goes astray. The first important step when you get home is therefore: get everyone to empty the car. Even a 3 year old child can help. This is how the clean-up process immediately starts and everyone knows: things have to be done from now on. Then turn on the washing machine for the first mountain of laundry. Don’t put it off, that will only make it more difficult.”

Gone holiday vibe…
“It was not. If you put off everything that needs to be done, you will only experience stress. The sooner you get your house in order, the sooner you can enjoy the holiday photos and that nice wine you brought from Italy. You can enjoy the after fun more. So set yourself a deadline: all bags and suitcases must be empty and tidy within two days. Also things like the hiking boots, camping gear, swimming rings and books: put everything back away as soon as possible.”

How do you pick up the daily rhythm again?
“Don’t immediately go crazy to catch up on everything you couldn’t do during the holiday. Such as fanatically cleaning your house completely, or getting rid of all your incoming emails on the first working day. First open the most recent emails; your colleagues have probably already taken on older, important tasks. Don’t schedule any appointments for the first few days either and take it easy. Give yourself time to start up and make a realistic schedule for your future tasks.”

How do you stay in control of your relaxed holiday feeling?
“Make sure your planning is realistic and achievable. Good planning gives space and makes you more flexible. Don’t overload your agenda and be aware of what planning yields. It can give you time to spend on yourself, just like in the summer. Like an hour’s walk, or listening to a podcast on the couch. Also put these kinds of things in your agenda and stick to it. Take good care of yourself, just like during the holidays, and stay focused on that.”