2020 has been a tough year for so many people, and business hasn’t been exempted from hardship. So, there might be a natural temptation to work through the holiday period to play catch-up. However, taking a break can sometimes be just as important as working through.
2020 has been a tough year for so many people, and business hasn’t been exempted from hardship. So, there might be a natural temptation to work through the holiday period to play catch-up. However, taking a break can sometimes be just as important as working through.
The benefits of taking a break
Taking a break from work, and more specifically from the tech that control our work life, is extremely important. It’s not even about the length of the break, but rather your commitment to making it a real break.
Burnout is a very real thing, and without a break, we’re putting our mental and physical health at risk. Taking a break from your busy world gives you a chance to recharge your mental batteries and come back feeling fresh.
Not only that, but it’s also great for your family. Everybody has busy lives these days, and sometimes it’s hard to give your family all the time they need. Taking a break from tech lets you fully focus on family, be completely present and really make the most of your time together.
Prepare thoroughly for your break
Firstly, the key to taking a successful break is preparation. If you’re going to spend your entire break worrying about the work you didn’t get done, you’re not going to completely relax. So, prior to your break, make a list of all the essential things you need to get done.
Avoid taking on new tasks so you can focus your attention on clearing all your existing ones. Leaving the office on your last day is a lot more satisfying when you know there’s no work hanging over your head for your return.
Turn off those notifications
Once you’re out of the office, the first thing you should do is turn off all the unnecessary notifications on your phone. While the idea of taking a complete break from technology is nice, it’s likely that you’ll still be using your phone. But it doesn’t have to be a business tool while you’re on a break.
If you’ve got work-specific apps or work email accounts on your phone, switch off the notifications and commit to not worrying about work while you’re away.
‘Out of Office’ emails are your friend
If you’re worried that people might think you’re slacking off, remember the ‘out of office’ email function. Leave a short note to say you’re on a break and won’t be accessing emails. Give people a clear return date when you’ll be available again, and you can enjoy your break comfortably.
Resist the urge to check on work
Finally, resist the urge to dip your toes back into the world of work. It can be tempting to just quickly check your emails, or check the work messaging system on your phone. But while you’re on a work-tech break, you’ve earned the right to stay completely clear of it.
Remember, there’s no work that’s more important than your health. So, give yourself the proper break you need, and come back to work refreshed and ready for the new year.
