HOW TO UNPLUG THIS FESTIVE SEASON

Are you a workaholic who battles to take some well-earned downtime? Then this is for you...

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In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find it challenging to truly disconnect from work afterhours or while on vacation, especially if we’re passionate about our career or have workaholic tendencies.

However, taking a break is essential for mental and physical well-being. We explore the most effective, expert-approved ways to unplug this festive season, so you can fully relax and recharge.

SET CLEAR BOUNDARIES
Establishing boundaries is crucial for a healthy work-life balance. Before your vacation, communicate your unavailability to colleagues and clients. Set specific times when you will check emails (if absolutely necessary) and stick to those limits. Clear expectations will reduce stress and anxiety.
DELEGATE TASKS
Don’t be afraid to reassign work tasks to whoever will stand in for you while you’re on vacation. If you’re a manager, empower your team to handle urgent matters in your absence. This ensures a smooth workflow, and builds trust and leadership skills within your organisation.

CREATE AN EMERGENCY PLAN
Prepare for potential work emergencies by designating a point person or backup contact for critical issues. Provide them with clear instructions and access to necessary resources. This way, you can truly relax knowing that someone capable is handling any unforeseen issues.

TURN OFF WORK NOTIFICATIONS
Disable work-related notifications on your phone and other devices. This simple step can significantly reduce the temptation to check in. Also, use the ‘Do Not Disturb’ feature to silence work-related apps during your holiday.

ENGAGE IN MINDFUL ACTIVITIES
Use your leave as an opportunity to fully embrace rest and relaxation. Whether it’s hiking, yoga, meditation or simply reading a few books, these activities can help you stay present and enjoy each moment.

UNPLUG FROM SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media apps can sometimes blur the line between work and leisure. Consider taking a break from platforms that are closely linked to your profession. Instead, use this time to connect in-person and explore new experiences.
PLAN FUN OUTINGS
Create a vacation itinerary filled with enjoyable, life-enhancing experiences. Being kept busy – at home or on holiday – by activities you love makes it easier to forget about work. Explore new places, try new foods and immerse yourself in local culture.

SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
Vacations are meant for relaxation, not productivity. Set realistic expectations for what you can achieve during your time off, and avoid overloading yourself with personal projects or career-related tasks.

You owe it to yourself to fully enjoy your time away from the office, so you can return well rested and ready for a new year. Disconnecting from work on holiday is essential for your overall well-being and is likely to lead to increased productivity and creativity when you return. Remember, a well- deserved break can make you a more focused and motivated professional in the long run. So, unplug, unwind and make the most of your vacation!

By: Shani Tsai
Photos: Gallo/Getty Images