How Does a CEO Switch Off from Work When on Holiday?

A holiday is the best way to detach from your everyday world and rest, but for most work never stops, and switching off is not an option. For those that struggle to let go, Richard Holmes, Director of Wellbeing at Westfield Health, discusses with CEO Today why switching off whilst on holiday is important and how you can do this.

As the head of an organisation it can be challenging to switch off from work, even when you’re on holiday. Learning how to switch off is important so that you can relax, recuperate and come back to work revitalised. If you don’t, this can lead to stress, which in turn can make it harder to perform at your best.

A holiday is the perfect chance to take a much needed break and step back from your day-to-day responsibilities. Here are some top tips to help you rest, relax and enjoy yourself:

• Delegate and communicate. Although it can be difficult letting go, don’t feel like you have to do everything yourself. If you’re concerned about your workload before you go away, delegate tasks to your employees and communicate why. This should help you focus and prioritise on the tasks that need to be done before you go on holiday.
• On the last day before your holiday, understand that it’s ok to say no. Don’t take on extra tasks or responsibility as this will create extra stress and make it harder to relax once you’re away. Take time to focus on the important tasks you already have.
• Don’t take your work with you. Heading up a company can often create a never-ending workload, but it’s important to visualise yourself stopping work and going on holiday when you leave on your last day. It’s also important you don’t take your laptop home or away with you. To help this, take five minutes to organise yourself and your first working day back so you’re prepared.
• Stick to a routine. Sticking to a routine whilst on holiday so that you still set aside time for relaxation, fun activities and sleep is very important to help keep stress at bay. A holiday routine will also make it easier to go back to work.
• Turn off your mobile and resist checking your emails, or if you must, put aside ten minutes at the beginning or end of each day. While technology has led us to a permanently connected world, it’s important you relax on your holiday. If you’re stressed and answer an email this could lead to repercussions when you return.

By implementing these tactics just before and during your holiday you’ll notice a real difference in your ability to de-stress, relax and most importantly, enjoy yourself!