How to Beat the Winter Break Blues and Rock Your Return to Work
Written By Goodbye Classrooms
Winter break: two glorious weeks of no alarms, no grading, and endless coffee sipped at actual human speeds. But now, the reality of returning to work is here, and let’s be honest—it can feel like a total buzzkill.
If the thought of lesson plans, staff meetings, and trying to remember your email password has you in a slump, you’re not alone. But don’t panic! The winter break blues are real, and they’re totally beatable. Here’s how to transition back into work mode without losing your sanity (or your leftover holiday cheer).
Acknowledge the Blues—They’re Normal
First things first: it’s okay to feel blah about returning to work. The post-break dip is real, and it’s not a sign you’re bad at your job or ungrateful for it. Accept the feeling, then focus on what you can control.
Ease Back In
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is your post-break productivity.
Start small: Focus on organizing your workspace or prioritizing tasks for the week.
Give yourself grace: It’s okay if the first few days back feel a little sluggish.
💡 Pro Tip: If returning to work feels like a deeper dissatisfaction with teaching, it might be time to reflect on your career. Download our Reflection Guide for Teachers to explore what’s next.
Carry the Break into Work
Just because break is over doesn’t mean the things that made you happy during it have to stop.
Loved morning coffee in peace? Set your alarm 15 minutes earlier to savor it.
Binge-watched a great show? Chat about it with coworkers during lunch.
Found joy in walks? Sneak one in before or after school.
The key is to integrate those feel-good habits into your workday.
Set One Fun Goal for the Week
Work doesn’t have to be all seriousness, all the time. Give yourself something to look forward to.
Plan a coffee outing with a colleague.
Wear your coziest sweater and make it a thing.
Bring in a treat for your students or coworkers—nothing says “I survived winter break” like cookies.
Reflect on Your Wins
Take a moment to remind yourself why you’re here. What impact are you making? What have you accomplished so far this year?
Write down three things you’re proud of.
Focus on the positive changes you’ve made in your classroom or school.
Reassess Your Career Goals
Sometimes the blues aren’t just about missing the break—they’re a sign it’s time for a change. If you’re feeling stuck, now is the perfect time to reflect.
Ask yourself: What’s making me happy in my job? What’s not?
Explore new possibilities if teaching no longer feels like the right fit.
💡 Next Steps: Download our Reflection Guide for Teachers or check out Is Teaching the Right Career for You? A New Year’s Reflection Guide on the blog.
Remember, You’re Not Alone
Returning to work after winter break can feel like a solo struggle, but your coworkers are likely feeling the same way. Lean on them, share a laugh, and remember: you’re all in this together.
You’ve Got This!
The winter break blues don’t stand a chance against a teacher like you. With a little planning, some self-kindness, and maybe a coffee (or three), you can tackle your return to work and even find moments of joy in the chaos.
If the blues linger, don’t ignore them—they might be telling you something important. Whether it’s finding more balance in teaching or exploring a new career altogether, know that support is out there.
Looking for a fresh start? Check out our free resources to kick-start your next career chapter. You’ve got this—holiday sparkle and all.
