Take Your Vacation!

Great leaders take time away from work to recharge. They know that doing so is essential to their success. And they encourage their team members to do the same, so that they can return to work refreshed, rested and reenergized. 

Be sure you aren’t falling for any of these myths about taking time away from work. 

MYTH: “If I take time off I’ll lose my edge.”

FACT: Study after study confirms that taking time off improves productivity. And when you’re more productive you’re happier, less stressed and positioned to do your best work.

MYTH: “If I take time away from work people will think I’m lazy and undedicated.” 

FACT: Nope! Other people will recognize you as wise, well balanced and having your priorities in order. You’ll be respected. 

MYTH: “If I take time off I still need to show my dedication by replying to email.” 

FACT: You’re not impressing anyone by sending emails during your vacation. Turn off email notifications, lock your phone in a drawer if you have to, and give yourself (and your family) the gift of disconnecting. A digital detox will infuse you with energy!  When you come to the end of your life are you really going to say, “I wish I had sent more emails?”

MYTH: “If I go on a vacation, I’ll need a vacation to recover from my vacation.” 

FACT: No one says you have to go on a super busy, non-stop, exhausting vacation. Take long weekends. (Heck, for starters just take a regular two-day weekend off without working.) Go on day hikes. Take a drive through a beautiful area. Listen to music. Visit your favorite coffee shop. Read a book. Sleep! Walk on the beach (my favorite). Engaging in activities other than work will renew your mind and help you maintain perspective. 

In my consulting and coaching with leaders I’ve seen way too many people married to their work, putting in ridiculous hours and letting their vacation days expire; not to mention neglecting their family and their health. Don’t be one of those people.

Take your vacation!