Just a few weeks ago, we were all preparing for the holiday break. Now, we’re back at it — refreshed, reinvigorated, and… maybe just a little sad? A tad sluggish, too, if we’re being honest. You aren’t alone. There are many names for what you’re experiencing.

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While experts haven’t quite agreed on what to call it universally, they do acknowledge that most of us go through it. We don’t have to look far. It’s like how we grieve our fleeting weekends throughout any financial year. Coming back from an extended break has a similar effect — only more pronounced.

Don’t get us wrong. Long vacations have immense benefits. They fortify our overall health and wellness. It may seem counterintuitive, but time away from work will actually improve the way you work when you’re back.

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Fact: People who don’t go on vacations are more likely to suffer from heart disease. Not taking a break from work can give you a heart attack. Literally.

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In 2020, software company Zapier conducted an online survey that pinpointed precisely what knowledge workers dread about returning to work after extended time off. Post-vacation blues made it to the top 5. Here’s the top 10 round-up:

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So, what we’re really saying is: If you’re not exactly in an energetic “New Year, New You” state of mind when you’re reading this, take it easy. We’ve all been there, pal.

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It might take a few days to find your groove again. Many productivity hacks will help you return from vacation with a smaller lump in your throat and fewer headaches. But let’s kickstart your work restart with an exercise in gratitude.

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