May 25, 2021Tyler Collins
It can be tough to get back into the swing of things after rehab, but it is important that you do so. One of the things that can feel challenging is going back into the workforce.
For a lot of people, starting a new job is a huge step towards their recovery. It’s a chance to start becoming more productive in pursuing a substance-free life.
However, it is not always easy because it can be tough when trying to balance your recovery by going back into the working world.
This article will discuss how to handle a new job after rehab and what you should keep in mind during this process.
1. Maintain A Positive Attitude
A new job means working with new people and being in a new environment. It is not easy to get used to this especially if you are still dealing with your personal struggles. However, what could help is maintaining an optimistic attitude. This can help not only with your work but also with your mental health.
Being positive means you’re not going to allow yourself to get upset or frustrated easily. It also means you are more likely to be open-minded and friendly with your co-workers, which can lead to the formation of friendships as well as a better working environment for everyone. Another way is by always looking on the bright side of things during this transition period.
2. Clarify Job Requirements And Expectations
A lot of times, what is in the job description does not exactly match what your manager expects. This could lead to conflicts in the future. You don’t want to learn after a few weeks that you’re apparently not performing up to expectations.
Before starting your job, speak to your manager and be clear about what is expected of you. Confirm your schedule, the office dress code, and other things that you may need to know about the company culture.
By knowing these things beforehand, you can focus on the tasks that need to be done and not worry about future issues. Take note that it’s best to get this info straight from your direct manager from the very start rather than getting bits and pieces from colleagues.
3. Ask Help When You Need It
When you are introduced to new tasks you’re not familiar with, don’t be afraid to ask questions. It is quite common to feel hesitant to ask for help when it’s needed. Perhaps you’re worried that they may think you don’t know your job or that you’re incompetent.
However, if you don’t ask questions and spend too much time trying to figure things out on your own, there is a chance that you will do the task incorrectly or incompletely. This could lead to errors at work which can have consequences such as reprimanding for not following instructions properly or even getting fired.
Trying to handle things on your own even if you’re already struggling can also cause you a lot of stress and anxiety. These problems can put you in a tough situation and could even lead to relapse.
4. Make Time For Your Recovery
When you’re starting a new job, it’s easy to get carried away with your work. You want to be dedicated and you want to prove to yourself and everyone that you can keep your job. Because of this, you start prioritizing your work over everything else.
While there is really nothing wrong with working hard to keep your job, the problem occurs when you brush off recovery activities that you should still be doing after rehab. For instance, some people in recovery start skipping 12-step meetings because they are “too busy” with work. While it may seem harmless to miss one or two meetings, this can lead to a relapse. It is important that you find the right balance between work and recovery, so it’s worth making time for meetings or other activities even if they cut into your “work hours.”
5. Practice self-care
Self-care is very important when it comes to starting a new job, especially if you’re in addiction recovery. When you take care of yourself, you can lower your stress levels and also become more productive and focused on your tasks. Below are some examples of self-care activities.
● Eating Healthy
Don’t skip meals even if you think you’re too busy at work to eat. Always strive to eat on time and choose healthy options.
● Stay Active
If you don’t have time or budget for exercise classes, doing something active for just 15 to 30 minutes a day is a good start. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking a block on the way home are just examples of how you can stay active.
● Get Enough Sleep
Having enough sleep at night will help you stay clear headed and focused when you’re at work. It will also help you feel less grumpy.
● Engage in Relaxing Activities
Take a bubble batch, meditate, or get a foot massage.
Prioritize Yourself To Be Productive At Work
Remember that you cannot pour from an empty cup. By taking care of yourself, you can be more focused and productive as well when it comes to your work.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Lighthouse Treatment today.
