how do I adjust to returning to the office after working from home for 5 years?

It’s the Thursday “ask the readers” question. A reader writes:

I’m writing in to find out how to get prepared, both literally and mentally, for a relatively quick change in my work situation.

Context: I work at a state agency in Minnesota and for the last five years a large majority of state employees have been teleworking, with occasional in-person attendance for division meetings, conferences, trainings, etc. There are state employees who have been working onsite the whole time, so I understand that I am very fortunate to have been able to work from home.

However, on Tuesday a notice was released announcing that state employees are being ordered back to the office at least 50% of their scheduled workdays in a month, effective June 1st (well, I guess June 2nd since that’s a Sunday but that’s not why I’m writing in, obviously).

My main reason for reaching out is to get advice on what steps to take so I can be ready for this not insignificant change to my whole working life. How do I adapt to a very different routine? Buying business-appropriate clothing? Figure out transportation? Food? Having a lack of privacy/office for difficult or sensitive conversations with employees (I work in human resources)?

I am also quite aware that I am lucky that I still get to work from home at least half the time, when many state employees have never had that option, so please be kind in the comments and refrain from telling me I am entitled and lazy and not productive. Any suggestions are greatly welcomed!

Readers?

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