Planning for a Great Return

The All-In Decision

Returning to the office—or stepping into any significant change—requires commitment. For me, one of the most formative lessons in going all-in came during my time at IMG Academy. When Forstmann Little acquired the company, our team faced a big decision: remain independent partners or transition into full-time employees of IMG Academy.

It wasn’t an easy choice. Moving to employee status meant trading some independence for structure, including new hours, PTO policies, and even a uniform. Just picture me in all Under Armour and lots of royal blue! But despite the adjustments, it was ultimately the logical choice. I made the decision to commit fully, diving into the new dynamic with the mindset of making it work.

Looking back, I realize how much I gained from going all-in. That willingness to adapt and fully embrace the new rules of the game not only helped me grow but also deepened my connections to the organization and its mission.

Why Go All In

Going all-in isn’t just about saying yes to change—it’s about showing up with intention. Whether you’re facing a career shift, a new organizational dynamic, or a return-to-office mandate, the decision to engage fully can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth.

The most relevant example of this happened during the pandemic. After 20 months of remote work, I transitioned back to the office full-time, five days a week. Let me tell you—it’s no small thing.

I loved remote work. I still advocate for its benefits and believe in the flexibility and autonomy it offers employees. As the pendulum swings back to full-time in-office work, I can only hope that employers are mindful of maintaining some balance for their teams. But in my case, I knew returning to the office was the right decision for our team.

I decided to look for the silver lining in all of it. Instead of resisting the change, I embraced it and found ways to make it my own.

One of the biggest adjustments I made was rethinking my daily schedule. To maximize productivity and create uninterrupted focus time, I established a 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. workday. Those quiet morning hours gave me the space I needed to dive into tasks before the office energy picked up. It was a small, intentional shift that made a big difference in how I navigated the transition.

The takeaway? Going all-in doesn’t mean blindly accepting every change. It means finding ways to take ownership of the experience, adapt to the new reality, and make it work for you.

Holding On to What Matters

Even when you commit fully, it’s important to hold onto the elements of flexibility and autonomy that help you thrive. At IMG Academy, I found ways to balance the organization’s expectations with my own needs, negotiating arrangements like counting travel time toward PTO.

In my return-to-office experience, I brought similar intentionality to my approach. From designing a work schedule that played to my strengths to creating small rituals that made the adjustment smoother, I learned that holding on to what matters isn’t about resisting change—it’s about finding balance within it.

Whether it’s maintaining a morning routine, advocating for professional growth opportunities, or carving out time for personal priorities, these small acts of autonomy can help you navigate change with purpose and resilience.

Navigating the Challenges of a Great Return

Let’s face it: returning to the office can feel daunting. The commute, the loss of remote-work comforts, and the shift in daily routines all present challenges. But these challenges also offer an opportunity to reconnect, recalibrate, and reimagine your approach to work.

One of the most surprising benefits of returning to the office is the chance to rediscover the value of connection. There’s something energizing about being surrounded by colleagues, exchanging ideas, and building relationships in real time. That kind of collaboration isn’t just good for the organization—it’s good for you too.

It’s also a chance to design your own experience. By being intentional about your habits, routines, and mindset, you can take control of the transition and make it work for you.

OK, Let’s Play: Design Your Leadership Path

Here’s how to make your return intentional and impactful:

Ready: Reflect on what a great return looks like for you. What mindset and strategies will help you succeed?

Set: Plan for the first 30 days back. What habits and routines will set the tone for a positive transition?

Go:

• Work Out Your Morning Routine: Build a rhythm that energizes and prepares you for the day.
• Maximize Your Commute: Turn travel time into an opportunity for inspiration with podcasts, music, or reflection.
• Pack Your Lunch With Care: Avoid the cost and convenience traps of eating out by preparing satisfying meals.
• Celebrate Connection: Embrace the unique energy of in-person collaboration and let it recharge you.

The Only Way Out Is Through

Returning to the office—or navigating any major change—is an opportunity to grow. When you go all-in, you open yourself up to new possibilities, deeper relationships, and transformative experiences.

But if, after giving it your all, you find that it’s not the right fit, you’re empowered to take the next step. Just don’t stay stuck in the in-between. Wherever you’re heading next, go with intention, and make it great.

Change may be challenging, but it’s also a chance to design a better future. Why not embrace it fully and see where it takes you?
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Hey there! I’m Blair Bloomston, author of UPLIFTED WEEKLY and your friendly consultant, facilitator, and game-based educator on-call, bringing a passion and penchant for all things play (I’m also alliteratively all-in). As the founder of Leaders Uplifted, I help leaders like you tap into creativity, connection, and confidence to make work feel less like a grind and more like a game. Keep reading with me— I’m here to be your business best friend. Let's go!