I also quietly joined that line, but it's not as easy as it sounds.

I saw in the news that President Trump told federal employees, "If you don't come in, you're fired," and big tech companies like Apple and Google are now all shouting for a return to the office.

The era of being trapped in meeting rooms again has come for us, who had been living "only on Zoom" for a while.

I wonder if it was this tiring to get ready and drive to work again.

The problem is this: I used to work well even with the alarm off during remote work, but these days, it feels like a war as soon as I wake up. I have to wash my face, put on makeup, choose clothes, and then face traffic hell. The fact that I have to go through all this just to work sometimes makes me sigh. And by the time I head home, I'm completely drained.

During remote work, I could flexibly adjust my lunch and working hours... but it's not the same in the office. If I'm not sitting by 9 AM, I feel the pressure, and I have to clock out exactly on time, making the day feel suffocating. Especially since I'm far from a "morning person"... adapting isn't easy.

Meeting colleagues I only saw on screen in person feels awkward, and I find myself worrying about every word I say. Just hearing someone next to me constantly on the phone or typing makes it hard to concentrate... I feel acutely aware of how my social skills have diminished.

At home, I could set my laptop angle, lighting, and coffee cup position however I wanted. But in the office? The air conditioning is too cold, my space is cramped, and the person behind me is too loud... I already want to escape back home.

It's tough even going to the office just two days a week, so I really respect those who go every day. I've suggested to my company to adjust my schedule to come in three times a week. One day to breathe at home, and one day to burst with energy at the office. That's how I'm adapting.

These days, I've gotten into the fun of listening to audiobooks on the bus. I can throw away the formula of "commuting = stress." Sometimes I heal by listening to podcasts. Surprisingly, my mind feels clearer in the morning.

It's okay not to act overly lively in the office. I started by having a cup of coffee and casually greeting people. Gradually, I opened up, and only then did I feel a bit less awkward. Even if I'm not a perfect "office person," being a "reasonably friendly colleague" is still fine, right?

A small plant, a favorite photo, and noise-canceling headphones. Just having a few items that make the office feel like my space makes the day feel much less overwhelming. Even if the atmosphere is uncomfortable, it's my job to create my own points within it.

Just because going to the office is hard doesn't mean I'm lacking. I'm just adjusting to a new rhythm.

A few days ago, I talked to myself in the mirror. "I'm getting used to commuting now...?"

Just when I thought I was adapting, I felt a bit relieved.