Truly Recharging on Vacation and Confronting the Influx
Dear Trellis,
I just had a wonderful vacation, but as it started to come to an end, I got so anxious! Thinking about all the emails and slack messages and to dos coming my way killed the beautiful buzz from vacation. How do I stop feeling this sense of dread at the end of a break?
Dreading My Return in San Francisco
Dear Dreading My Return,
Vacations are so valuable and important! They offer a precious opportunity for rejuvenation and relaxation, yet the dreaded "Sunday scaries" can cast a shadow over our return to reality. Balancing our need for disconnection with the demands of modern life is an art in itself. We will explore how to truly recharge during vacations.
Set Clear Boundaries and Unplug: Before embarking on your vacation, establish clear boundaries by informing colleagues and clients about your unavailability. You will not be checking email, slack, or social media. Be clear! Embrace a digital detox by disabling email and app notifications. No badges or push notifications should show up on your phone! Reduce social media usage when possible, and consider removing those apps for your time away. Resist the urge to check work messages. This freedom from digital distractions will allow you to be fully present and engaged in your vacation experiences.
Embrace the Joys of Vacation: Make the most of your vacation by immersing yourself in new experiences and local culture. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's trying new cuisines, pursuing adventure activities, or simply exploring unfamiliar places. Embracing novelty fosters cherished memories and personal growth.
Prioritize Rest and Reflect: Vacations are not just for exploration; they are an opportunity to prioritize rest and relaxation. Dedicate time to quality sleep and leisurely naps, establishing a healthy sleep routine. Engaging in mindful activities like yoga, meditation, or reading will promote inner peace and clarity, allowing you to reflect on your vacation experiences.
Transition Gracefully: This is the most important one. As you return from your vacation, set aside a full day to process the influx of emails and messages before diving back into work. Grant yourself the space to ease into the demands of your job, embracing the transition gracefully. This intentional approach allows you to reconcile your respite with reality, easing the weight of the “Sunday scaries”.
By setting boundaries, embracing a digital detox, immersing in joyful experiences, prioritizing rest and reflection, and gracefully transitioning back into the routine, you can achieve a balanced and fulfilling vacation experience. Remember, it's not about adhering to a perfect ideal but rather finding what works best for you. So, embark on your next vacation with these principles in mind, and return with a renewed spirit, ready to face the world with enthusiasm and composure. Curious to hear your feedback and if there are any additional tips you’ve thought of for your next trip.
Cheers,
Rebecca