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How to Deal with Anxiety During the First Working Week of 2025
Ah, the first week of January. A time when we step out of the glow of holiday indulgence and into the stark reality of our overflowing inboxes. For those of us in the fashion industry, this transition isn’t just about “getting back to work”—it’s the official kickoff to a hectic season. With fashion weeks just around the corner, the pressure can feel like a heavy weight hanging over our heads.
If you’re feeling a little (or a lot) anxious, don’t worry—you’re not alone. I’ve been there, and I’m still there. Anxiety during the first working week of the year is practically a rite of passage, but over the years, I’ve found a few creative ways to keep it from taking over.
art: The Smoker II 1913 by Juan Gris
1. Set a Stylish Routine
Anxiety thrives in chaos, and the first week back can feel like total mayhem. To regain some control, I set a “style routine” for the week: pre-planning my outfits down to the accessories. It’s not just about saving time in the morning (though that helps); it’s about setting a tone. A sleek blazer or statement necklace becomes my armor against the day. Bonus points if your outfit reminds you of a vacation vibe—because we all need that energy right now.
2. Turn Deadlines into Checkpoints
In fashion, January means deadlines. Editorial calendars, show prep, and client meetings all seem to collide at once. To avoid the panic of a massive to-do list, I break everything into smaller checkpoints. Each time I tick off a task, I reward myself—a latte break, a quick scroll through Pinterest, or even a five-minute daydream about post-Fashion Week spa days.
3. Find Calm in Chaos
Fashion week prep can feel like a tornado, but even tornadoes have an eye—a calm center. For me, that “eye” is often an indulgent five minutes spent flipping through an art book or revisiting photos from an inspiring travel destination. Immersing myself in visual beauty (that’s not a mood board or a runway lineup) helps me reset and reminds me why I love this industry in the first place.
4. Don’t Let Social Media FOMO Win
The post-holiday social media scroll is a trap. Everyone’s showing off their idyllic vacations or perfectly curated “back-to-work” moments, and it’s easy to feel like you’re already falling behind. Here’s my trick: I set a 10-minute timer for Instagram each day. That’s enough time to catch up on trends without spiraling into comparison mode. And if I post something? I remind myself it doesn’t have to be perfect—just authentic.
5. Redefine “Perfect” for the Week
The start of the year is a time for resolutions, but perfection is the fastest route to burnout. Instead of aiming for a flawless first week, I focus on feeling accomplished. Did I check off even half my tasks? Did I have one meaningful conversation? Did I laugh at least once? If the answer to any of these is “yes,” I’m already winning.
The first week of work in 2025 doesn’t have to feel like climbing Mount Everest in stilettos. With a little planning, some creative tricks, and a reminder that you’re not alone in feeling this way, it can be the perfect opportunity to ease back into the chaos—and maybe even find a little joy in it.
Disclaimer:
I am not a doctor or mental health specialist. The suggestions in this article are based on personal experience and are meant for lighthearted inspiration. If you are experiencing ongoing or severe anxiety, please reach out to a qualified professional for support.
