Taking time off from work is tough. More often than not though, it's not the leave application, out-of-office email, or getting someone else to stand in that's the problem. It is staying away from work that is tough. I have struggled with disconnecting from work in the past, incessantly thinking of emails to send, tasks to complete, and projects to advance. Last year, I miraculously ended up enjoying two healthy vacations and managed to use up all my leaves for the year.
I understand that taking leaves may not be as simple for everyone as the 1-2-3 in this article. But if the only thing stopping you from taking a break is YOU, here's me reflecting on 3 little steps that helped me take time away from work and more importantly stay away from it.
- Admit you need it - The first step is admitting that you are in need of some time off. We must give ourselves a break from constantly communicating, creating, and delivering. Once we recognize this need, it becomes easier to focus on enjoying our leaves, or for once, focus on nothing at all. ALL reasons for taking time off are legitimate, you need not (and should not have to) look for 'legit' reasons to log off, even if it's a need you cannot clearly articulate.
- Ask for it - The second step is asking to take time off from work. Expressing our need for a vacation to our leaders is perhaps easier, simply because we are the ones asking. Trickier to navigate is when we are the ones being asked - by our coworkers - to make ourselves available when we are out of office. Being able to identify and decline irrational demands on our time off, is, therefore, an equally important part of this step.
- Appreciate it - This one is the toughest step for me by far. Whether we are spending time with loved ones, investing in a passion project, volunteering, or relaxing at home with a book, nothing should stop us from appreciating this opportunity to rest and recharge. I will admit that this is an uphill journey, but it is one I am continuing steadfastly on.
To leave or not to leave is certainly not the question. The question probably is 'how to leave?'
Instructional Designer | Storyboard creator | e-Learning developer
3 年This was a refreshing read, Kudos to you for writing and sharing this.
Quality Leader, Process and Tools Leader, Program Manager, Continuous Improvement Specialist, The views expressed are those by me and me alone, and are not associated with the views of present or past employers.
3 年Sampurna Ray - Thanks for sharing this great guidance. While difficult sometimes, we need to change the expectation for time off from "IF" to "WHEN"! ??
Vice President - HR Business Partner | Leadership Coach | Hogan Certified | Ex-GE | XLRI
3 年Good one Sam!!
Researcher II Deputy Head Corporate Relations II Associate Professor II Coaching II Mentoring II Leadership Development II OD Consultant II Diversity and Inclusion II Culture Catalyst
3 年Work has integrated into our life. Good read Sampurna Ray
Better Behavioral & Business Outcomes through Leadership & Coaching
3 年Wise words! Hope you’re doing well.