How to Make the Most of Your Time Off

Whether you are staying in or going away, here are some ways to make the most of your time away from work so that you come back feeling energized and refocused.

1. Disconnect from Your Devices

Technology and the internet make it easy to feel involved in everything, all the time, any time you want.  This convenience has come at the cost of being present and living in the moment. So in order to “be where you are”, disconnect from social media, the internet and emails.  Try some of these activities to help you stay away from your devices without the fear of missing out.

  • >> Working out to your favorite music
  • >> Watch a movie
  • >> Read a book in silence
  • >> Go for a stroll
  • >> Cook your favorite dish

2.  Check something off your bucket list man-people-art-taking-photo-large

During the busy week, you may not be able to find the time to do the things that simple bring pleasure and adventure into your life.  So, use this bonus day to try an activity that you have been thinking about.  If you don’t have a wishlist – what’s the first thing that come to mind when you get free time.  Pick that!

Sip_&_Paint_Event

3. Don’t Focus on Perfection

Naturally, with free time you are going to think of ways to optimize and get more work done.  Make sure you manage your expectations.  Don’t plan to check off everything on your to-do list.  Maybe commit to 2-3 items. Managing your exceptions of productivity will help reduce stress and frustration.  Today, don’t focus on perfection but focus on progress.

Related Reading:  The Entrepreneur's Guide to A 3 Day Weekend

4. Allow Time for Reflection

Consuming information and being productive are commonly associated with learning.  However, reflection is another aspect of learning that is often overlooked. According to Harvard Business Review, here’s why you should take time to reflect:

  • >> Learning from direct experience can be more effective if coupled with reflection; that is, the intentional attempt to synthesize, abstract, and articulate the key lessons taught by experience.
  • >> Reflection builds one’s confidence in the ability to achieve a goal (i.e., self-efficacy), which in turn translates into higher rates of learning.

writing in journal


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