It’s been almost two years since the world went into lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. For many people, this has meant working from home. But as the lockdown measures start to ease, some people are starting to return to their workplaces.

For some, this is a welcome change. They’ve missed the social interaction that comes from working in an office. They’re also keen to get back to a more normal routine.

But for others, the thought of returning to work is a daunting one. They’re worried about the risk of contracting the virus. And they’re not sure how they’ll cope with the new social distancing measures that have been put in place.

For me, it was great to be back in the office after working from home for so many months. It felt good to be around colleagues again and to have some structure to my day. Here are the fun and laughter moment during my first day at office after a long gap due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shafi Ahamed

Whatever your views, there’s no doubt that returning to work after lockdown is a strange and uncertain time. Here are some of the things you might experience as you make the transition back to the workplace.

1. You might feel anxious about returning to work

It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious about returning to work after such a long break. You might be worried about contracting the virus or passing it on to others. Or you might be concerned about how you’ll cope with the new social distancing measures.

If you’re feeling anxious, it’s important to talk to someone about it. Talk to your boss or a trusted colleague. They might be able to offer reassurance or help you to plan your return to work in a way that feels less daunting.

2. You might find the new social distancing measures challenging

The social distancing measures that have been put in place to prevent the spread of the virus can take some getting used to. You might find them challenging, particularly if you’re used to working in close proximity to others.

It’s important to remember that the measures are in place for a reason. They’re there to protect you, your colleagues and the wider community. So, try to be patient and understanding as you get used to them.

3. You might feel like you’re starting from scratch

If you’ve been away from your workplace for a while, you might feel like you’re starting from scratch. Things will have changed, both in terms of the physical environment and the way that work is done.

It’s important to be patient as you get reacquainted with your workplace. Things might not be the same as they were before, but you’ll soon settle back into a routine.

4. You might find the transition back to work easier than you expected

For some people, the transition back to work is easier than they expected. They find that they quickly settle back into a routine. And they enjoy the social interaction that comes from working in an office.

If you find the transition back to work easier than you expected, try to be understanding of those who are finding it more difficult. Everyone is different and everyone is dealing with the situation in their own way.

5. You might find the transition back to work more difficult than you expected

For some people, the transition back to work is more difficult than they expected. They might find the new social distancing measures challenging. Or they might feel anxious about the risk of contracting the virus.

If you find the transition back to work more difficult than you expected, it’s important to talk to someone about it. Talk to your boss or a trusted colleague. They might be able to offer reassurance or help you to plan your return to work in a way that feels less daunting.

Whatever your experience of returning to work after lockdown, it’s important to be patient and understanding. We’re all in this together and we’re all dealing with the situation in our own way.