Taking a break during the holidays: what if we managed to do it this year?

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It's time for the long-awaited summer vacation. Some people are about to leave, while others still have to wait a little longer. We all generally look forward to summer vacation with impatience. Summer vacations are often longer, the weather is nice, and we get to spend time with family and friends. These are the things that make this time of year so special. This break is also a chance to disconnect, unwind, and rest. The main goal is to take your mind off work so you can come back to the office feeling refreshed.

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So how can you successfully disconnect during your vacation?

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Unplugging on vacation: the importance of quantity and quality

Unplugging on vacation: the right amount

First, let's talk about quantity. It is recommended that you take at least two consecutive weeks off once a year. Taking this minimum amount of time will help you rest, let go, and disconnect. We don't disconnect immediately during the first week because our brains need time to understand that we are on vacation. It's also important to note that after the age of 40, disconnection is less immediate. It's during the second week that the effects of rest begin to be felt. This week is ideal for recharging your batteries. Finnish researchers have published a study showing that the ideal length of a vacation is eight to eleven days.

Quality vacations

Furthermore, don't compromise on the quality of your vacation. Vacations are also meant to be a break from your professional life and a change of routine. That's why it's best to get away from your workplace, try new activities, and turn off your phone. This type of vacation will be more helpful in unwinding than if you spend every day near your workplace.

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Unplugging on vacation: letting go

Letting go when we spend a large part of our time at work is not easy. Furthermore, it is important to know that everyone has their own method for successfully letting go.

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For some people, preparing well for their vacation is important. This may involve writing a to-do list for when you return. That way, when you come back from vacation, you can quickly remember the tasks that need to be done first. It's also a good idea to have a colleague at work who can take over while you're away. This colleague will be familiar with your files and can take action if an urgent need arises. Knowing this will give you peace of mind.

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On the other hand, some people need to plan a busy vacation in order to successfully switch off. They fill their time with activities such as sports, sightseeing, and spending time with friends. Their days are packed, which allows them to focus on new things rather than work.

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Finally, let's not forget that letting go can also involve relaxing activities. On the agenda: rest, yoga, meditation, and simply doing nothing!

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Other tips

Establish rituals

To unwind on vacation, establishing rituals can be a good idea. Rituals show our brains that they can switch off from the automatic mode of commuting, working, and sleeping. Just like letting go, everyone can develop their own rituals. These could include spending your vacation at the beach, gardening, or meeting up with friends every Saturday.

Cut off his professional tools

This is one of the key points for successfully switching off during your vacation. It will be difficult to disconnect if you remain connected to the tools you use in your everyday working life. That's why there are a few things you should do during your vacation:

• Put away your work computer
• Turn off work notifications
• Do not read or reply to emails
• Don't look at his files

Take time

Finally, it is important to remember that vacations are also meant to be taken as time off. Outside of vacations, it is difficult to take time off, so now is the time. Taking time off means having time for yourself, for what is meaningful to you and for the people around you whom you appreciate.