As the holidays approach, many of the executives I coach share a familiar struggle:
“How can I truly disconnect from work during my break?”
It’s a challenge we can all relate to. Work emails, notifications, and “just one quick check” often creep into what’s meant to be a time for rest and recharging.
But it IS possible to enjoy a real break without work constantly running in the background. I call it “getting out ahead of the holidays.” 🏖️
Here are a few ways to make that happen:
🔑 Get Your Head in the Right Place
▪️ How do you want to feel when you’re back at work? Energized? Relaxed? Picture that version of yourself and keep it in mind as you plan your holiday.
▪️ Try a little mindfulness before you go—whether it’s meditation, deep breathing, or just sitting quietly for a few minutes. It’s a great way to start letting go.
▪️ Set some personal rules, like “No work emails after the plane takes off. ✈️” Bonus: Ask a trusted friend or family member to gently remind you if you slip up—but make sure they know it’s about supporting you, not turning into the “phone police.” A little humor and understanding go a long way!
🛠️ Set Your Team Up for Success
▪️ Pick someone you trust to handle anything urgent while you’re away.
▪️ Make sure your team knows who’s covering what while you’re gone—no surprises for them (or for you).
▪️ Your out-of-office message is your best friend. Keep it simple: “I’m out, here’s who to contact, and I’ll be back on [date]. Thanks for your understanding.”
📣 Be Crystal Clear with Everyone
▪️ Let people know well in advance that you’ll be off the grid—colleagues, clients, stakeholders, whoever needs to know.
▪️ Define what a “real” emergency is, and make sure your team is on the same page. Spoiler: Most things probably aren’t as urgent as they seem.
▪️ Empower your team to make decisions without you. Trust them—they’ve got this!
🧳Plan Your Comeback
▪️ Give yourself a buffer day—don’t dive straight into the chaos. Block your first day back to catch up, prioritize, and ease into the flow. Think of it as your landing pad.
With a little prep, you can enjoy a real break and come back refreshed, recharged, and ready to roll.
**What’s YOUR best secret to truly unplugging during the holidays?**
I’d love to hear how you do it. 👉 Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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