back to reality

1. Once again considering or cognizant of the true nature of something after fantasizing or being overly optimistic about it. He really needs to come back to reality—there's no way he's getting into such a prestigious school with his mediocre grades. I was excited to book a vacation until my empty bank account brought me back to reality. Those newlyweds think that marriage is utterly blissful, but they'll come back to reality soon enough.

2. Once again dealing with or existing in one's normal state or routine, as after an especially pleasurable hiatus or vacation. A: "How was your trip to the Greek islands?" B: "Oh, it was like a dream, truly one of the most wonderful experiences of my life. Back to reality now, though." After spending six weeks in Japan, I had a really hard time coming back to reality. Everyone took a two-week break after the successful launch of our latest product, but now it's back to reality.