Friday, 12 May 2017

Return to work session and stressors

I had another good return to work session this week. We did a bit of an exercise to compare our physical and cognitive abilities and use right now versus an average work day.   Physically I am doing great, I am working out and walking the dog.  Cognitively I need some focus.  I don't do a ton of reading, writing, problem solving, multi-tasking etc right now.  The facilitator gave us a calendar for May and June and said to schedule time to do brain activities.   There are apps you can download that help with cognitive practice so I will try that. I will also up my reading and writing, and take time to get back into what is happening in the government and in my ministry.   I can get up to speed on news events related to my organization, which will help me understand the business needs at the moment.

I had a call with my director this week too.  It was pleasant enough.  She has invited me to a branch session on June 6 and I think I will probably go.  Starting to think more about work and what it will be like to go back.   I met a few staff today for lunch and got some more updates on things that are happening.  A lot can change in a year believe it or not!  Also so far 3 of my staff have left for other jobs.  I feel like my team is dismantled.  The branch has the lowest employee survey results in the ministry this year.  A lot of these issues are related to new management while I have been away.  It is very frustrating and not making me eager to return.  But I am working towards the gradual return in July, and I will see how it all goes.   The person acting for me right now (one of my staff) is very eager for me to get back!  I told her to hang in there.  But I am a bit worried about being bombarded as soon as I set foot in the office.

I will really have to work on setting those personal boundaries, and not letting people take advantage of me. Health is number one!!

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