Cognitive Dissonance and the Return to Work

Returning to work after a holiday often creates a sense of cognitive dissonance, causing discomfort due to the contrast between an idealized holiday self and the realities of work. This dissonance manifests as frustration, anxiety, and sadness as individuals grapple with the loss of freedom and control they experienced during their time off. To alleviate these feelings, it’s beneficial to reframe returning to work not as a loss but as a transition back into a structured routine. Embracing these routines can provide a sense of stability and predictability, enabling individuals to set realistic goals that align with their personal values.