Travel is the best way to get away from it all. It’s a chance to relax, refresh, and recharge your batteries. But does it really count as “getting away from it all” if you’re bringing “it all” with you?
We’re talking about those work calls and emails that somehow sneak in while you’re lounging poolside.
Or sitting in your beautiful hotel room with breakfast in bed… while working on the PTA bake sale you need to arrange for the school fundraiser.
No shame, we’ve all been there. And even though life doesn’t pause just because you’re on vacation, you should be able to disconnect and take actual time off.
By logging off from day-to-day life, you’re giving yourself a fair chance to rest and refresh yourself. Constantly jumping to attention any time your phone goes “ping,” feeling the pressure to quickly respond to every email, or even just mindlessly scrolling Instagram – all of these things can contribute to stress and put pressure on your nervous system.
Your body and mind need you to unplug from the world wide web and give yourself time to focus on you. “But what about (insert responsibility here)?” you might ask. You can create ways to allow yourself time off from life.
Here are a few ideas:
Clean house before you go
We don’t mean literally clean your house (although, actually, do that too). We’re talking about the concept of having everything neat and tidy before you leave. Finish any tasks that will worry you if you put them off. Tie up any loose ends so you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation in peace. No bringing work with you!
Set firm boundaries.
Let everyone at work know you’ll be unreachable, set your OOO message, and give exact dates. (It’s a good idea to give yourself a day or two to settle back home upon your return, rather than jumping right back in.) Tell everyone that “Out of Office” means OUT, as in you will not be answering any calls, emails, or messages.
Ask your coworkers to hold you accountable.
Let them know what your vacation plan is and get their help in staying “off the grid.” Let them know if you call or email to tell you to stop obsessing over work and enjoy your vacation.
Take a digital detox
Once you arrive and are settled into your accommodation, put your phone on airplane mode. Yes, that’s right – disconnect. We would have said leave your phone in your suitcase, but you’ll probably want to take photos with it, plus it’s good to have in case of emergency. And leave it in your pocket or purse – there’s no reason for it to be glued to your hand.
Now, the idea of a digital detox might sound impossible to some people, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you went so long without one. You don’t need to be sharing to Instagram stories every five minutes during your trip. And do you really need 25 photos of the same sunset?
When you spend too much time online or behind the camera, you forget to actually enjoy the moment. If you’re that desperate to share your photos and memories online, give yourself a set time to do so when you settle in for the evening. Or just do it when you get home.
Enjoy the moment.
You don’t need to be on the go 24/7. Allow yourself some time and space to enjoy your surroundings, take a step back and appreciate the natural beauty of wherever you are. Get an early start one morning and explore that market you saw yesterday. Or ask the locals for their favorite hidden gems – they know all the spots! Take your time and simply savor the experience.
Try being present, and feel the tension melt from your body. When you give yourself the opportunity to truly get away from it all, you’ll return to “real life” feeling like a new person, relaxed and rejuvenated. Isn’t that what a vacation is for, after all?
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