How To Switch Off On Vacation
I returned from my first vacation in nearly 3 years this past week. This time round was different for me though as I refused to take any work with me which is something I had always done before. I was going to be in a completely different timezone too, which helped with not being glued to my emails. As someone whose life is quite literally their job, it was hard to let go but very worth it. I returned from my trip genuinely looking forward to being back at work – this was something I hadn’t encountered before.
In this blog, I will discuss pointers to help you return to work feeling refreshed and with a clear mind.
Expectations and Foundations
Prior to setting off on the road, spend some time delegating your usual duties to your team members and leave them a guide on how to manage any of your workload whilst your OOO. Doing this will allow your colleagues to easily work on the tasks you need them to. You should also spend some time reaching out to any clients or external stakeholders to make them aware of your time off and provide them with an alternative point of contact in your business. Setting an out of office automatic response is essential too.
Live In The Moment
If you are living your holiday through snaps you have taken on your mobile phone screen, are you really even there? Putting down your phone will undoubtedly help you relax more than most other things. Living in the moment will allow you to take in your surroundings and will leave you with some amazing memories for life.
Take pictures here and there but don’t act as a vlogger your whole holiday recording a million videos that you will never watch again.
Leave it Alone
Got a bright idea for a new approach or pitch at work? Write it down and discuss this with your internal team on your return to the office. Don’t try to reach out and spark conversations such as these when you are trying to relax. That sun lounger on the beach will quickly turn into an office space and it’ll feel like you never left work. Your colleagues will try to do what they can to resolve issues and work your duties for you whilst you are away to give you time to unwind – you wrote them a whole handover after all – so let them do what they need to and only respond when necessary or urgent.
Now it’s getting to the summer holiday season, and many of us will be making trips to go away from work and relax. Consider using the above tips on your next venture!
