After every holiday, it's inevitable to feel a bit down when returning to work. Many office workers suffer from Monday Blues. However, work is a part of life, and instead of harboring resentment, it's better to change our mindset and find ways to make ourselves comfortable at work while maintaining a balanced life. Below, I will share five European work philosophies with you, hoping to bring you new ideas and a fresh perspective on life, so you won't experience post-vacation syndrome anymore!
Say Goodbye to Monday Blues and Post-Vacation Blues with These Tips
Five European Work Philosophies to Overcome Post-Vacation Blues
After every holiday, returning to the work routine can sometimes be depressing. Many office workers suffer from Monday Blues, feeling overwhelmed by the workload and challenging clients. However, work is a part of life, and instead of harboring resentment, it's better to change our mindset and find ways to make ourselves comfortable at work while maintaining a balanced life.
When it comes to work philosophy, many people aspire to the European lifestyle, with shorter work hours and weekends free from work. Aside from the different pace compared to Asia, Europeans have a set of beliefs and principles that allow them to view their professional lives with ease. Below, I will share five European work philosophies with you, hoping to bring you new ideas and a fresh perspective on life in 2022, so you can overcome post-vacation blues from a new angle!
#Danish: "Instead of worrying about things you can't change, spend some time healing your body and mind with a cup of coffee."
Danish Hygge philosophy is the pursuit of a comfortable life. (Image source: Unsplash @stellarose)
The Danes, known for their Hygge style, pursue comfort in both their lives and work. Here, comfort doesn't mean living an easy life within a comfort zone, but creating a healing atmosphere through things that bring joy. We all know that there are many things in the workplace that can't be changed, and yet, when these events occur, we still feel resentful. In such moments, it might be helpful to learn from the Danish personality. Take a walk, have a cup of coffee, or treat yourself to a small snack. By indulging in pleasant things, you can shift your emotions and find the energy to carry on.
Relieve work stress with aromatherapy oils, accompanying you throughout the workday.
In addition to finding comfort through food, aromatherapy is also a method to uplift your mood. I recommend the exclusive aromatherapy essential oils developed by BONE. Made from natural plant and fruit extracts, they offer various scents ranging from fruity and floral to woody. Whether you use them with a diffuser or an aromatherapy machine, a few drops can bring stress relief and relaxation to your life. The worries in front of you will dissipate under the influence of these pleasant scents, and your body and mind will feel rejuvenated.
#French: "Don't worry about achievements; worry about finding a job you love."
The French value freedom, and work is no exception. (Image source: Unsplash @kalimullin)
The inherently romantic French always have a clear understanding of their personal preferences and what they want. Unlike in other countries where jobs with money, power, and social status are prioritized, the French care more about whether they genuinely enjoy the work itself, regardless of job titles or company reputation.
Of course, we can't blindly act on our feelings, as there are many practical considerations. However, at the beginning of the year, it might be a good time to reflect on what kind of work gives you a sense of fulfillment. What tasks make you happy and even make you love going to work? Even if you can't make drastic changes right away, such as quitting your job to pursue your passion, taking some time for self-reflection and knowing your true desires can help you gradually plan and implement changes.
#Spanish: "Taking leave is for yourself."
Take a day off and focus on yourself. (Image source: Unsplash Rizky Subagja)
Why do you usually take leave? To go on a trip with family and friends? To celebrate anniversaries with your loved one? To handle paperwork at the bank? Or simply because you don't feel like going to work? With only a few days of annual leave, it's a waste not to plan them well. In the Spanish mindset, taking leave from work is for yourself. You don't need a specific reason or a well-arranged itinerary; just focus on yourself. Wake up lazily, make yourself a cup of coffee, read the book on your bedside table while enjoying a pleasant fragrance, go grocery shopping in the evening, and cook yourself a delicious dinner. It may seem like an itinerary-less day, but it provides true satisfaction and replenishes your body, mind, and soul. When you return to work the next day, you'll have more energy and vitality. If you haven't experienced this kind of leave yet, I highly recommend you give it a try!
#German: "Slow and steady is faster. Accomplishing one major task per day is enough."
Set aside impatience and take it slow for better efficiency. (Image source: Unsplash Annie Spratt)
Looking at the pile of documents in front of you and the to-do list on your notebook, it feels like a wave crashing towards you while time chases after you. This feeling of anxiety arises when we try to complete tasks quickly, but it prevents us from focusing and often leads to mistakes. The Germans, known for their efficiency, tackle their work calmly by adhering to the principle of "slow and steady is faster."
By taking the time to think and efficiently tackle one major task per day, you can steadily produce high-quality work. This approach allows you to submit projects smoothly without panic, and maintain a good level of work quality.
#Dutch: "Work to earn a living; interests and family come first."
Finding a balance between work and life is the key to happiness. (Image source: Unsplash @momhasapples)
How much of your day does work occupy? Why do you work so hard? For the Dutch, work is simply a means to earn a living. In their life's priority order, family and leisure interests come first. Although everyone has a different definition of work, it's worth contemplating the purpose of work and what your ideal life looks like.
Whether it's work or life, they both leave marks on our journey. Finding a balance between the two allows us to maintain a comfortable state of mind every day. When you adjust your mood and mindset to their best state, you can face work with ease and fully enjoy your time after work.
A must-have for office workers! Carry your ID card, cardholder, and change wallet all in one.
Transportation cards, credit cards, company ID cards – we often forget to bring them when rushing out of the house. To avoid such situations that can ruin your mood at work, I recommend the practical AirTag Lanyard Wallet designed by BONE. It combines a lanyard cardholder with AirTag attachment, ensuring you won't lose your belongings. The cute character keychain on top can also be used for contactless payments. Even if your hands are empty, you can fulfill your daily spending needs. Every office worker should have one!
After reading about the five European work philosophies, have you changed your thoughts about work? A change in mindset is the catalyst for a new attitude, and a comfortable work environment is the key to reducing dissatisfaction. Finding a balance between work and life is the most important thing!
The journey of work is long, so let's cheer each other on!
Further reading: Revitalize Your Work Environment! Recommended 4 Healing Gadgets to Relieve Stress