I just returned from a wonderful vacation break and agree that some time off is the best prescription for recharging the career batteries. While not many people are happy to see their vacations end, it is always nice when a person can return to work with a clear mind to create and tackle new ideas and projects. I am no exception. I did something I very rarely do when on vacation…I did not check my email. GASP! Did I pay a heavy price when I returned from my vacation? Oh yes. An astronomical number of emails awaited my immediate attention upon my return, but I stand firm in saying it was worth it to unplug. And let’s face it, it is probably good for our colleagues and clients to have us re-energize. *SMILE*
Whether you truly enjoy what you do with your career or not, you will be susceptible to burnout if you do not find a way to relax your mind. I would be lying if I said I didn’t think about my work while away. Of course I did. But the break was exactly what the doctor ordered for me. Now I am back renewed.
How often do we tell ourselves that we cannot take a break? Do you tell yourself that you can’t take even a few days to relax your mind? We have brainwashed ourselves into thinking that we can not separate. Technology and those handheld devices have changed our lives in a million ways and not always good. But, you know what? Those little devices do, in fact, have an off button. I was shocked to see that mine worked.
Even if you do not have the funds to travel, have you ever thought of taking a few days for a StayCation? Just stay at home? Yes! I’m a huge fan of StayCations myself.
No matter what works best for your lifestyle, it is important for you to take time to clear your mind and rid yourself of the dust that can fill your head. We spend such a very large portion of our lives at work; therefore, it is important that we pay attention to keeping ourselves energized and focused.
Career Management is about navigating opportunities for advancement, and part of that navigation includes identifying and addressing opportunities for improvement. Every battery needs to be charged at some point, and your mind is no exception. Take a break and unplug every now and then. You will love the results.
KSE Career Consulting 
I couldn’t agree more. Sometimes we get so caught up in our daily routines that we don’t realize that we’re burning ourselves out. We get so mired down in our daily routines that we forget to take a break to recharge our batteries. But once we do, we realize how badly we needed that “break” so we could relax and just recharge our batteries.
For me, personally, I’ve been the most productive after coming back from a vacation where I’ve had time to take a trip and relax. I come back more focused and able to get so much more done.
Whether you take a break or not, you can only do so much at one time. When I return from vacation, I have learned to just start at the top. I am surprised how productive I can be as opposed to looking at everything all at once.
Totally agree! The best thing you can do is unplug; the world – and the company – will survive.
Hi Tami, How wonderful to see you post. Thank you!