Get Back to Work with the Right Mindset

Are We Really Going Back to the Office This Year?

For the past few years, every August seems to come with the same announcement: “Time to get back to the office after Labor Day!” And yet, here we are—still figuring it out. Companies like Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase, Meta, Disney, and Amazon are rolling out their latest return-to-office plans, asking employees to show up a few days a week—or in some cases, all five!

But here’s the real question: Are these office mandates actually going to work? And if they’re not, how can we make this transition better—for both employees who might be dreading the commute and managers who are trying to make the office work again?

Shifting Your Mindset as an Employee

If you're facing the push to head back into the office, it’s all about mindset. Here's how you can make this shift smoother:

1. Flip Your Perspective: Instead of seeing this as something being forced on you, think about how the office can help you reconnect with your team and spark new opportunities. In-person conversations can lead to ideas and career growth in ways that virtual meetings just don’t.
2. Create Boundaries: Don’t let the office take over your life. Use your time there to collaborate, and save your remote days for focused, independent work. Balance is key.
3. Be Flexible with Yourself: If you're part of a hybrid model, use it to your advantage. Instead of fighting it, think about how you can get the best out of both worlds—being around colleagues in the office while still having time to yourself at home.
4. Self-Care Isn't Optional: Change can be exhausting. Take care of yourself—whether it’s getting enough sleep, exercising, or finding ways to manage stress. Returning to the office is a mental and physical adjustment, so listen to what your body and mind need. Reach out to be a part of my online Mindset Mastery community!

Mindset Tips for Managers

For managers, this isn’t just about getting people back in their desks. It’s about creating an environment where employees want to come back and do their best work. Here’s how to make that happen:

1. Lead with Understanding: Some of your team might be anxious about this shift. Acknowledge their concerns, be open to their feedback, and show that you're willing to meet them halfway.
2. Focus on the 'Why': Instead of just saying "you need to be in the office," explain why it’s important. What benefits does in-person work bring that remote can’t? When people understand the reason behind the decision, they’re more likely to buy into it.
3. Flexibility Goes Both Ways: If your team doesn't need to be in the office 24/7, don’t force it. Hybrid models can help employees avoid burnout and keep productivity up. It’s all about balance.
4. Promote Growth: Make the office a space where your team can grow. Encourage networking, mentorship, and skill development—things that might be harder to do in a remote environment. Reach out to be a part of my online Mindset Mastery community!

Time to Bet on Yourself?

But let’s be real: For some of you, the office just isn’t the right fit anymore. Maybe you’ve given it a shot, but if you can’t get behind the idea of going back to the office, maybe it’s time to consider something else.

Is this the moment to go all-in on your side hustle? You know, that project or passion you've been working on during evenings and weekends? With so many people building successful careers online or starting their own businesses and agencies, now could be the perfect time to take the leap.

Ask yourself: Is it time to believe in myself and make my side hustle my main hustle? If the office isn’t where you see yourself, maybe it’s a sign to trust your gut and follow your own path.

What’s Next?

At the end of the day, rigid office mandates might not stick for everyone. Whether you're navigating a return to the office or thinking about going full-time with your own venture, the most important thing is to focus on what works best for you. Mindset is everything. Embrace the change, take control of your future, and make the choice that aligns with your goals.

If you're a high performer navigating big changes—whether it’s heading back to the office, leading a team through this transition, or turning your side hustle into a full-time success—coaching with me can help you make it happen without burning out. I’ll help you develop the mindset and strategies you need to not just survive, but thrive through these shifts, so you can achieve success on your own terms. Ready to take the next step? DM me for a virtual coffee, and let’s make sure your next move is your best one.