Laura Vanderkam Low-Pressure Re-Entry

Ease back into work after vacation using Laura Vanderkam post-vacation routine principles to protect time, triage email, and rebuild momentum.

6 time blocks, 90 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Calendar Buffer Sweep: 10 min
Block off meeting time to give yourself open space
Rapid Email Scan and Archive: 15 min
Scan senders, star urgent items, and move rest out of view
Two-Priority Pick: 10 min
Pick two simple tasks that move projects forward
High-Value Action Sprint: 30 min
Focus on one straightforward task to gain steady momentum
Midday Reset Walk: 15 min
Step outside or walk around to reset mental energy
Early Shutdown Setup: 10 min
Review tomorrow and close work on time without guilt

About this routine

Returning to work after time off often triggers an impulse to clear every unread message and tackle backlogs immediately. Time management expert Laura Vanderkam advocates a different approach: low-pressure re-entry. Rather than forcing a high-intensity return, this method treats your first day back as a transition zone dedicated to creating space and setting small targets.

The Laura Vanderkam post-vacation routine focuses on protecting your schedule before opening your inbox. By blocking out calendar space, triaging emails by priority sender rather than reading chronologically, and selecting just two manageable items to complete, you avoid the mental fatigue that often follows a holiday.

This 90-minute structure helps you rebuild momentum gracefully. Setting firm boundaries on day one keeps the benefit of your vacation intact while ensuring critical tasks get done.

Why this routine works

Prevents post-vacation overwhelm by keeping calendar blocks open
Filters email efficiently without wasting hours on non-essential messages
Restores focus quickly with realistic low-pressure task targets
Protects rest and energy levels on your first day back

FAQ

What is Laura Vanderkam's approach to returning from vacation?

Laura Vanderkam recommends treating the first day back as a low-pressure transition day with open calendar blocks, quick email sorting, and minimal core tasks.

How many tasks should you aim to finish on your first day back?

Vanderkam suggests picking only one or two simple, high-impact tasks to gain momentum without overloading your schedule.

Why should you buffer your calendar on the first day back at work?

Blocking off your calendar prevents immediate back-to-back meetings, giving you room to process urgent emails and plan calmly.

Sources

How to Return to Work After Vacation, Fast Company, Laura Vanderkam
Tranquility by Tuesday, Laura Vanderkam