In the perpetual struggle for achieving a balance between work and personal life, numerous individuals find it challenging to detach and unwind from the daily grind. Recent research indicates that more than half of adults in the United States continue to engage in work-related activities while on vacation. Furthermore, many of these individuals experience feelings of guilt associated with taking time off. An astounding 86% of survey respondents admitted to receiving calls and messages from colleagues while on vacation, with 63% confessing to feeling anxious if they do not check their work inboxes, and 59% facing difficulties in switching off from work.
Renowned business psychologist, Roger Hall, underscored the significance of taking time off for mental rejuvenation. He accentuated the essential need for the human brain to rest and recuperate, a need that is often hindered by the digital age in which we live. A recent survey also revealed that over a third of Americans have never felt more uninspired at work, indicating a compelling necessity for taking time off.
Dr. Ali Mattu, a distinguished clinical psychologist, imparted invaluable advice on successfully disconnecting from work before embarking on a vacation.
Setting expectations is paramount before taking time off. This involves communicating with colleagues regarding who will be assuming your responsibilities and ensuring that they are adequately equipped so as to not require contacting you. For those working remotely, it is crucial to notify coworkers of your unavailability to check messages.
Muting notifications is recommended by Dr. Mattu to prevent constant interruptions from work. For those struggling with the temptation to check in, he suggests going a step further by completely removing work-related applications from your phone.
Establishing an emergency plan with colleagues is vital in anticipation of unforeseen situations. In the event of an emergency, they may contact you, but otherwise, refraining from staying online or checking in is advised.
Dr. Mattu also highlights the importance of engaging in absorbing and enriching activities to distract oneself. Whether it involves taking a dip in the pool, experimenting with new cuisines, or exploring an unfamiliar locale, engaging in activities that engage the senses can assist in diverting attention from work and contribute to a more enjoyable vacation.
Forgiving oneself for finding it challenging to completely detach from work is essential. Dr. Mattu encourages individuals to be compassionate towards themselves, as it may alleviate anxiety about the future. Occasionally, engaging in work-related tasks while on vacation can serve to alleviate stress upon returning to work.
By implementing these measures, individuals can significantly enhance their capacity to disconnect from work before embarking on a vacation, thus ensuring a more rewarding and rejuvenating experience while away.