{
  "id": 2972241,
  "title": "Vacation hangover? 7 ways to get back to work and boost productivity",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/vacation-hangover-7-ways-to-get-back-to-work-and-boost-productivity",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-24T07:22:52.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/lifestyle/vacation-hangover-7-ways-to-get-back-to-work-and-boost-productivity-1.500650229"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Dubai experienced a surge in productivity tips as vacationers returned to work, with the \"vacation hangover\" effect causing grogginess and overwhelming feelings. Experts call this phenomenon the vacation hangover, which occurs due to the stark contrast between holiday freedom and the constant demands of work. Forbes noted that the first day back is not necessarily the most productive day, encouraging a buffer day between leaving and returning to work. To ease the transition, one should sort their inbox by importance rather than date, write tasks down, and set an automated reply for a day or two. Starting small and picking three priorities for the first week is advisable, as well as cleaning the workspace before sitting down. Taking intentional breaks throughout the day and resetting the sleep schedule a few days prior can also contribute to a smoother return to work. Lastly, remembering the purpose behind the vacation helps avoid viewing the return to work as a setback, but rather an opportunity for growth and renewed energy.",
  "summary": "Dubai: August is almost done, and if you spent the last few weeks back home catching up with family, eating your mother's cooking and doing absolutely nothing that resembles a to-do list, welcome back. You are not alone, and the grogginess you are feeling right now even has a name. Experts call it the \"vacation hangover.\" The stark contrast between holiday freedom and constant work decisions can…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}