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Whether you are working from home or the office, it seems everyone is working more these days and taking less time to unwind. Sometimes it seems that the only way to succeed is to keep working no matter what, but burnout is real and it doesn’t just mean less job satisfaction. Burnout can keep you from feeling effective at your job no matter how hard you work. It can create cynicism about your job and your customers and it can even affect your physical and mental health. To really feel successful you actually have to take time away from it. If you’re ready to unwind from your busy life, read on about planning a vacation to restore your inner peace.
Take a Cruise
Cruising isn’t just for shuffle boarding boomers and it doesn’t have to be expensive. One of the best ways to find an affordable cruise is to look for last minute cruise deals. If you aren’t on a budget look for a location you’d like to visit or one of the many themed cruises now available. Whether you’re looking for day-and-night jazz or you want a cruise that caters specifically to the LGBTQ+ crowd, there are ships that do that.
Whatever type of cruise you choose, there are advantages to an ocean-bound adventure over other types of travel for helping you unwind. First is the all-inclusive nature of a cruise, where everything from food to entertainment is included. Once you’ve paid your fare, all you need to do is show up. Next is that you can truly disconnect. Avoid the wi-fi and close your email for a few days. It will be there when you get back. Once you’ve turned the phone off you can find a way to relax that’s enjoyable to you. In a recent survey, respondents said they took a little over two business weeks off per year, but half that time was spent at home on chores that wouldn’t get done otherwise. That’s not unwinding. A cruise almost forces you into relaxing.
Plan Your Vacation
If you’re not in a position to run off to sea, you need to be your own cruise director and plan, plan, plan. The first step in unwinding from work is taking the time off. Don’t tell people you’ll check-in, or be available if they really need you. Most people find a lot of their identity comes from work and consider it almost inconceivable that the business can succeed without them, but the fact is, it can. Decide how long you will be out of the office and stick to it. That means setting boundaries on electronics. If you’re scrolling Facebook it’s very easy to find yourself checking work email. Instead of mindless scrolling or working, eliminate or block out minimal time for electronics.
Now that you’ve got time, fill it with a plan. Do something that brings you joy, whether it is gardening, hiking or reading a book. While part of your time should bring you joy, plan part of your time for something that is mentally and physically engaging as well. If you can find something meaningful to you, outside of your work, it is more likely to help you recover from stress. Yoga and meditation are two things that can help you recover during your vacation but that you should probably also consider making part of a regular routine.
Of course, it’s better not to burn out in the first place. The first step is making a conscious effort to do some of the things that you would do on vacation and make them part of your life. Other things you can start practicing even while you are at work. Try breathing exercises, make sure you get enough sleep and get regular exercise. Stretching can be done right at your desk. It’s important too to have a friend or loved one you can talk to about your day, processing it and setting it aside. At the end of the day though, there’s nothing quite as relaxing as time away.
