Tuesday, January 3 represents the first day back at work for many people. Any re-entry to work after a (hopefully) relaxing break is difficult. It can be even harder if you have sworn off all work contact and are dreading the email barrage <ahem>.

Here are a few tips to think about:

• Recognize that re-entry syndrome is legitimate. You’ve had a week or more off work, so it is completely natural to feel put out that you now have to… you know… work.
• Recognize that other people are feeling the same way. This is not the time to react vigorously to the first email that triggers a negative reaction.
• Have a plan to deal with re-entry. Make sure the first day isn’t filled with meetings. It’s a good time to have a one-day email limitation to let the flow subside before engaging. And make sure not to try to get everything done in one day.
• Capture any slow-management type goals. I put the attached image together from one break. Just taking the time to think about what matters and how you will manage it helps. Even go so far as to use a site like stickk.com to police your commitments.

For myself, I have been cold turkey on work contact since Friday, December 23. I expect the re-entry syndrome will be in full effect.