As I rode the Metroliner after a wonderful and relaxing trip to see friends in Washington, DC, I realized how difficult it is for many business people and executives to take a vacation. Is the idea of a relaxing vacation a pipe dream?
As an individual practitioner, I have learned that if I don’t stop and smell the roses, enjoy my family, and have fun, I will be sabotaging not only my career but also my life.
Vacations and days off are an important part of any career plan. They allow you to think a little differently and find the balance you need. Colleagues and clients also perceive you as a person who not only recognizes the need for balance, but is also not a control freak.
I think it’s really possible to leave the office both mentally and physically. It just takes a little planning and a really deep breath.
To be prepared
Look at your calendar for upcoming projects and deadlines. Try to take care of as much as you can before your trip, and be aware of emergencies when you return. Schedule upcoming meetings and projects on your calendar in advance, so you’re not in a rush when you return. I often create a To Do List and use different folders so that when I return from a trip, things are as organized as possible. By being prepared, you can put your project aside and enjoy your trip.
Delegate
Determine well in advance who will take over your responsibilities while you are away. Make sure he or she has the information needed to answer questions and, if decisions are to be made, what the appropriate comfort level is. For me, I have a back office that handles any emergencies for me. It’s a lifesaver. I know my clients are talking to real people who can help make their problem successful. If you don’t have a back office, talk to a few call centers in your area. At least your customers will hear a real voice and know that the message will be taken.
Notify your customers
Let your clients know ahead of time that you will be traveling. If you normally respond to email and phone messages within an hour, your customers should know that you won’t be available. If they know when he will return and who to contact, emergencies are not that drastic and they will be able to gauge the level of importance. Be sure to give the same information in vacation emails and voice messages (office and cell).
additional protection
If you can schedule a quiet day at the office for yourself before your official return, do so. Telling clients that you’ll be back on Tuesday, when you’ll actually be in the office on Monday, allows you to answer those emails and return some of their calls without the stress of rushing.
be connected
If you must be online and check in at your office, either by phone or email, I suggest taking care of things every few days and in the morning or very late in the afternoon. Remember, you are on vacation and balance is important.
relax and daydream
Bring books and magazines that are not related to your business. Vacations allow us to think about things we never dreamed of. Last December, while on vacation sitting in the sun on Bonaire, I came up with a fabulous idea for my business. After a few short minutes of reflection, I decided to give it a try. I attribute the success of that idea and the successes of my business to the fact that I was on vacation.
I wish you all a wonderful and relaxing summer vacation!
