Essential Tips to Truly Disconnect and Recharge For Leaders

It’s that time of the year when things slow down a bit for most leaders and many of us take a vacation or opt for a staycation to disconnect and recharge.

Quick question; have you made plans yet to switch off from work to relax, reconnect, refresh, and reset?

I read a report not too long ago that highlighted the issue of burnout among leaders, revealing that fewer leaders take their holidays, and many who do, find it difficult to truly disconnect while on holiday (going away or not).

As someone who recognises how important it is to disconnect and recharge, I’ve got a few tips to help you switch off.

For Leaders Struggling to Take Time Off to Disconnect and Recharge

One word: STOP!

To refresh your energy and keep functioning effectively, you must deliberately switch off (i.e., disconnect) so you can recharge your ‘batteries’. Whether you choose to go far away on holiday or you choose to stay local, what’s important is that you take time off work. Your mind and your body need it. Plus, you’ll be better for it (i.e., healthier and more productive).

How to STOP:

S – Step Away.

Disconnect from work, both physically and mentally by doing the following:

• Mark your rest days on your calendar
• Inform your team of your days off
• Delegate new tasks that are likely to spill into your time off
• Clear your workload

T – Take Time Off.

Make your time off official by getting approval and/or blocking it in your diary. Let your clients or customers know the dates you’ll be away and set up an automated email response.

O – Organise Your Time Off.

Plan where, and how, you will spend your time during your break. Be sure to include activities that make you happy and help you relax.

P – Prepare

Set clear boundaries between work and home life to maintain your sanity and wellbeing. Do so by:

• Deciding in advance not to engage in work-related activities during your break
• Informing your colleagues and clients/customers of your boundaries
• Staying disciplined in adherence to your boundaries

For Leaders Finding it Difficult to Switch Off

Your holiday is a time to rest. A time to reconnect, refresh, replenish, and renew. Here are some tips to help you prepare for it.

Before you go:

1. Prepare your mind: Visualise the fun and relaxing activities you plan to do and see–and feel yourself enjoying them too. That will help your mind to start switching off.
2. Clear your workload: Finish your tasks to avoid burdening others or thinking of the amount of work left undone during your break.
3. Delegate tasks: Have a discussion with your reliable direct report or with your senior leader to hand over responsibilities, to ensure smooth operations in your absence.

While on vacation:

1. Avoid work phones, laptops, or work tablets. Better still, leave them at home.
2. Resist the urge to check work emails so you’re not tempted to reply.
3. Do not call colleagues about work.
4. Relax and have fun.

Tips to Avoid Pressurising Your Employees During Their Holiday

1. Respect their time off: don’t ask them for a number to reach them on or suggest they check in during their time off.
2. Ensure a proper handover: assign their tasks and responsibilities to other capable team members for the duration of their time off.
3. Avoid calls and emails: treat them as if they are unreachable.

Taking time off work is essential for continuous functionality and productivity. Employees and leaders alike need it and they both must play their part to ensure it works well for all.

Go ahead and make plans to relax, reconnect, and renew yourself this summer time. If you haven’t already, start planning today to intentionally switch off, so you can continue to stay on!

Have a restful break 🏝

Belinda