We are sure with all the ideas we have been giving you, it will not be difficult for you to plan your home exchange vacation this summer. Yet, there is another thing that can be much simpler if you take some preventive measures: getting back to work after the fun is over.

The first steps you should take are related to having everything covered while you are gone: try to leave a short list of pending matters before you leave, organize your desk and clean your workspace, have a co-worker cover urgent matters while you are absent, you can easy them into the tasks they will be covering you by copying them relevant e-mails and sharing any important information they might need. Schedule a short meeting your first day back with this co-worker to catch up. Also, set your out-of-the-office e-mail and voicemail messages (if you set them to last after your return to the office, you will have time to catch up before people start sending you reminders) and inform contacts you will be gone and for how long.

If your vacations involves travelling (which we hope is the case), save one or two days to get settled back home before you have to return to work.

Image by jscreationzs /FreeDigitalPhotos.net

When you do get back to work, make a list of pending matters and organize them into two categories: cannot wait, can be dealt later. Save the second list for the following week. Then focus on the first list and choose those things that need to be addressed the first day, keep in mind the time you have available and do not overdo, or you will just ruin your “relaxed” state of mind. If you need help with something, ask someone to give you a hand.

During the day, take shot breaks to clear your head. Get up, stretch and take a deep breath. It will take some time, but you will get back on track. Remember to bring back a picture from your vacations or a small souvenir for your desk, those little reminders can help you relax if things get complicated.

Finally, as soon as you get settled back, return to HomeForHome and start planning your next home exchange vacation!