How To Prepare for a Stress-Free Vacation

After the past few months, we all could use a vacation!  If you find that it takes a couple of vacation days to destress before the real vacation begins, here are some tips on how to slip out of work mode and into a relaxing getaway without missing a beat!

Don't Make Yourself Too Available
You may feel compelled to check in the office every day or to make yourself available to work calls or emails, but don't fall in that trap!  If needed, assure that your colleagues that you will check in from time to time.  Let your work calls roll into voice mail and check on occasion but don't feel the need to be on stand-by,

Prepare Yourself for Hiccups
Your flight may be delayed, your room may not be ready when you arrive, or it may rain.  It's OK!  Mishaps and meltdowns happen, but they don't have to ruin a trip.  Make those mishaps part of your adventure and pivot to different activities.

Remind Yourself You Earned Your Vacation
​You've worked hard throughout the year to enjoy these precious days off, and frankly, you need time to re-charge.  If you start feeling guilty about not taking work calls, remember that vacations are a time to heal and re-energize so that you can perform your best throughout the year.

Be Careful of Your Phone
Checking voicemails and emails is too easy with our smart phones.  So make sure that you silent your calls and only use your phone to enhance your experience.  Take photos, enjoy fun apps, load up your Insta but don't feel compelled to respond to emails.

Plan for Some Adventure
There's no better way to shake off your normal work routine than by doing something unexpected.  Plan a special activity to get your adrenaline pumping like swimming with dolphins, parasailing, or renting a boat.

Rest Easy Knowing Everything Will Be Fine
While you're an important part of your work team, just remember that the world will not collapse if you take a vacation!  Talk with your colleagues before you leave about the tasks that will get done when you get back, and delegate your priorities that are critical while your gone.

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