August has arrived. In the northern hemisphere there is an excitement in the air, the sound of suitcases being zipped up and the mind already at whichever holiday destination you have chosen. Even if you decide not to travel, you know things slow down, traffic is better and you might decide to explore where you live.
It does not matter if you are taking the whole month off or part of it, the critical thing is to disconnect. For years, I was one of those people that would never switch off as if the country’s economy would falter if I turned off my laptop. That would be advice I would give to my younger self, take time off and unplug from the grind. Of course I took vacation before, but I was one of those who would sneak to the bathroom to answer emails. You know the type?
If I only knew then what I know now. So, in order to get the best out of whatever relaxing break you will embark on, here are some tips that might support you:
◦ Plan ahead – This is a good way to avoid feeling stressed and overwhelmed.
◦ Set some goals for your holiday – It will help you to stay focused and make the most of your time off.
◦ Don’t be afraid to relax – The whole point of a holiday is to relax and de-stress. So, don’t feel guilty about spending your time doing nothing.
◦ Spend time with your loved ones – This is a great way to strengthen your relationships and make memories that will last a lifetime.
◦ Do something you enjoy – This could be anything from reading a book to going for a hike. The important thing is to do something that will make you happy.
The invitation here is to pause and recharge. Your physical and mental health will thank you in return, as your employer and colleagues would also do. Enjoy!
Pause
