Switching off is essential for your physical and mental well being. But it’s not always as simple as leaving the office behind and sipping cocktails on your beach holiday. Without the right preparation, going on vacation can be stressful for you and your clients.
Follow these tips to relax and recharge over your holiday period so you can return to work feeling fresh and motivated (instead of already dreaming of your next holiday!).
Before Your Holiday
Along with packing the essentials (swimwear, camera, toothbrush…), there are a few must-dos to tick off your list so you can start your holidays with a clear mind. Leave work behind and get in relaxation-mode with these steps.
Tie Up Loose Ends
The best way to prepare for your holiday and get your mind off the job is to finish up all necessary work. Prioritise those essential tasks and ensure you meet the deadlines before going on leave.
Communicate Your Plans
Let your clients and colleagues know of your holiday plans. Inform them of the dates you’ll be away to ensure everyone is aware of your availability and any pressing matters can be taken care of before your leave.
Handover Clients
If you need to, handover clients and delegate tasks to a colleague while you’re gone. Whether it’s answering urgent emails or troubleshooting unpredicted issues, you’ll feel better knowing someone is there to hold down the fort in your absence.
During Your Holiday
Make the most of your holiday with these tips to switch off and unwind.
Leave Electronic Devices at Home
While it may be tempting to check your voicemail or answer a few emails during your holidays, taking your electronic devices on vacation can do more harm than good. Working during your vacation can affect your memory of the trip. You’re more likely to remember all the details of your holiday if you leave your devices at home.
Only 43% of people who use devices for work-related activities remember everything about their vacation – even if they’re only spending an hour working.
Science of Memories Study, Home Away 2016.
Get Outdoors
It’s no secret that spending time in nature provides a long list of health benefits. A study conducted for Beyond Blue showed contact with a natural environment helps to:
- Improve mood
- Lower levels of anxiety
- Lower stress levels
- Lower levels of depression
Take some time outdoors to help alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Whether you head to the beach, take a hike, or simply enjoy a picnic in your local park, getting back to nature will help you unwind.
Do The Things You Enjoy
Keep your mind off work by staying busy with the activities you enjoy. Whether it’s reading a good book, exercising, or catching up with friends, take time to do the things you enjoy. And don’t cut these activities from your schedule once you return to work. If you find something enjoyable or relaxing, continue with it when your holidays are over.
Returning To Work
After your holiday comes to an end, ease back into work with these tips.
Block Some Time Out
Give yourself an hour or so to catch up on emails and get back into the swing of things. Be sure to block this time out in your calendar so you’re not interrupted.
Leave Your Out-Of-Office On
Leave your automatic email response on while you get back into the swing of things to avoid an influx of requests from colleagues and clients.
Manage Your Stress
Upon returning to work, use these practical strategies to manage your stress and maintain a healthy work/life balance.
