If you're reading this, we'll assume you're already back in the office because is anyone really on LinkedIn during their Christmas holidays?

Didn't have enough leave to take this week off? We get it; it sucks to be back at work only one day after New Year's Day, so if you're feeling down in the dumps because more than half of your office is still out and enjoying their break, here are some ways to spend the work week…

But take each one with a generous grain of salt. (If you actually want to keep your job this year, we wouldn’t recommend these. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a new role, get in touch!).

1.     Play computer games

There's no better way to pass the time than to play a bunch of computer games, but make sure it doesn’t crash your computer. This will make you look like you’re being really productive on the first day back at work without having to do anything (just don’t yell at your screen).

2.     Read something that has absolutely nothing to do with your job

If you're procrastinating because everyone's on Christmas break and you're still feeling sorry for yourself and refusing to do work, have you thought about reading something that looks like work but isn’t work?

With lots of small fonts no one will know the difference. If you’re intelligent enough you might even get away with streaming Netflix without getting caught.

3.     Update and restart your computer

Returning to the office after the Christmas holidays probably calls for a computer update (or a few, if you’re lucky). Think about it like this: it's an immediate get-out-of-jail-free card and the best excuse not to work—once that bar is loading it's literally out of your hands.

Even if someone gives you work, it’ll just have to wait. So, sit back, watch it slowly update, and get away with doing absolutely nothing!

Then again, time should go by fast while working so if you feel like this, then perhaps it’s time to find a new role this year?