Last week I wrote about why taking a REAL vacation matters – one where you completely disconnect from work. If you missed it or want to revisit the importance of disconnecting, feel free to catch up on the blog here.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But how can I disconnect completely? My job is so demanding!” 

Here are a few tips to help you unplug and enjoy your vacation to the fullest:

Plan Ahead

Inform your colleagues and clients well in advance about your vacation. Delegate tasks to trusted team members and set clear expectations that you will not be available while away.

Embrace “Out of Office” Messaging

Set an “out-of-office” email response, voicemail, or auto-reply on your work communication channels. Advise people when you will return and who they may contact in your absence for emergencies. It never ceases to amaze me how self-sufficient people can be when they receive that out-of-office message.

Avoid the Temptation

Yes, it’s tough, but try not to check work emails or messages. Don’t take your laptop with you. If you have a separate work phone, leave it behind too. If you use one device for both work and personal, explore the settings on your phone to use “Do Not Disturb” rules for work-related calls and text messages and temporarily disconnect your work email. 

Have Fun with It!

Here are a few ideas to have fun with your colleagues while reinforcing that you will be completely disconnected and unavailable while on vacation.

• Invite people to guess how many emails will be in your inbox when you return. Bring a small souvenir back to the person that has the closest guess.
• Write down the tasks you need to temporarily delegate on individual pieces of paper and have a drawing for team members to pick one task to help you with while you’re away. Bring back a small souvenir for everyone that assisted with a task.
• Arrange a delivery of food or treats for your team while you’re away, with a thank you note for “holding the fort down.”
• Arrange a vacation “show and tell” meeting over lunch at the end of summer. Invite everyone to share their vacation photos and stories with the team.

So, there you have it! Taking a real vacation and completely disconnecting from work is not only possible but essential for your well-being and overall happiness. Using these tips, you can fully enjoy your time away. 

Remember, you deserve this break, and your work will still be waiting for you when you return. So go ahead, unplug, relax, and recharge – you’ve earned it! 

Happy vacationing! 🏝️🌞

Wishing you the best!