The summer months are officially upon us, and with the kids out of school and warm weather here to stay, inevitably thoughts turn to summer vacation. Many professionals feel inclined to set strict boundaries with themselves and their employers to limit work during vacation time, but in today’s modern workplace is it really wise to cut yourself off completely while you’re relaxing on the beach? Maybe not.
Today’s article will present a different perspective on staying connected with the office while on vacation.
Achieving Work-Life Balance
A balanced approach to work and life is of great benefit to most, if not all, employees in today’s fast-paced and stressful job market. It is undeniably important to make time to rest and recuperate outside of work in order to stay healthy and motivated. Companies want their best workers to stay sharp and on point during the most demanding times of the year, which is why many of them encourage the use of employee vacation leave and even use paid time off as a powerful recruiting and retention tool.
That said, just as you wouldn’t completely disconnect from your home life while at work, it might not be such a good idea to cut yourself off from work while on vacation. This can make for a very stressful return to the office and even reduce your ability to enjoy your time away if you are constantly thinking (or even dreading) what will happen when your holiday comes to an end. The trick to achieving strong work-life balance is in living in the moment as much as you plan for the future. While on vacation, enjoy your time away. Relax and spend time with the people you most enjoy. But balance that with an open eye or ear to what is happening in the office while you are away, so that you are better able to hit the ground running when you return.
Setting Boundaries
It can be really difficult to set positive boundaries between work and life. The easy way to do this while away from the office is to simply ignore or avoid any communications from your co-workers or employer while you are away. Turning off email and not answering your phone are the obvious ways to cut yourself off from the work you are dreading your return to. But as noted above, there are consequences to that approach.
A more productive boundary that protects our time and attention while we are away is one that is entirely mental. Set limits for yourself and respect them. If you are on vacation, consider checking email or messages only once every day at a specific time. Make the most of your leave by spending the rest of your day doing something meaningful to you, like spending time with friends or family, engaging in a new activity or hobby, or contributing to a charitable cause. By staying mentally organized and committed to your personal boundaries while not completely cutting yourself off from work, you will return to the office more prepared and engaged than you would otherwise.
Partner with a Leading Recruiter in Norfolk
ESGI knows the utility market inside and out because we have been serving power producers for more than 30 years. Contact a leader in power generation recruiting today to get started on taking the next step in your career.
