When last have you taken a proper holiday? Is this an area where you struggle to make it work and you feel overwhelmed, especially in a time where you need to rest?
- Re-energized and a new perspective
- Increased productivity and thinking
- It makes you calmer – taking a break from the “nstant-on-the-edge-living”
- A healthier you
Why is this so challenging?
In this world of interconnectivity, it is so easy (sometimes too easy!) to connect to our work. On the one hand technology enables us to have the freedom required for remote/flexible working but on the other hand we need to be mindful, “switch off” and stop wanting to check-in at work. I made two rules for myself during this once-in-a-lifetime trip:- Consciously decide to be present – the whole time.
- Limit work check-ins to 15mins a day. As I am in the process of getting my business off the ground, I needed to see there were no pending queries or emails that needed an urgent answer. I also decided that I will not sort out issues” but merely acknowledge that I’m aware of them.
In an article Amy Elisa Jackson further suggests:
- Be proactive before your holiday by discussing a backup plan with your manager
- Do craft a helpful “Out of Office” reply
- Don’t spend hours on your laptop. If an idea or to-do item pops into your head, jot it down in a handy notebook or the notes app on your phone, then handle it later
- Steer away from taunting hashtags like #SoGladImNotAtWork and #NeverGoingBack.
Leadership… and the burn-out issue
In this age of burn-out, leaders have an even bigger role to play managing this especially when your teams are going on leave. You need to have a discussion with your teams to ensure they have done a proper handover of projects for them to make best of their holiday break. You also need to set the example.
Is it not time for a sabbatical break?
On a different note, have you heard about the sabbatical holiday? Traditionally, a sabbatical is for taking time off from work for a long period… not many of us have the luxury to do this. Walter Simson introduced this idea of a sabbatical-like getaway where one “have time away in search of a concerted effort of self-improvement. The idea is that you can get closer to a life goal as well as relax. It is escaping yourself whilst being active in the world.”
Sounds like a good plan for me. Whatever you’re doing over the holiday period, have fun and spend time on things that are important to you.
#digitaldetox #leadershipmatters #worklifebalance #mindfulness #switchoff #beinthemoment
