Time away from the job will improve your efficiency and help accelerate your pace along the career path. In the end, personal down time will benefit your employer as well. Have the courage and wisdom to act on this career advice.
Seven-Steps To A Successful Vacation
1. Come to grips with the fact that your employer can get along for a few days without you. However, it is to be hoped that your absence will cause everyone to recognize how much you contribute when you are on the job.
2. Reject the macho idea that long hours with your nose to the grindstone demonstrate strength and commitment. It’s what you produce that counts. Even an ox needs time out of the yoke.
3. Plan your next vacation in advance. Hold to that date, come hell or high water. Cancel it only on a direct order from your employer. If your employer forces you to cancel your vacation, make sure he has a good reason. Absent a reason, consider whether you are working in an environment that will nurture your growth.
4. As you near the date of your vacation, establish a plan to cover your responsibilities. Do work in advance. Delegate. Advise your associates of your plans and what you expect to happen while you are away.
5. Leave a contact point where you can be reached with a “gatekeeper”. Don’t check with the office while you are on vacation. They’ll call you if you are needed. Don’t panic if they don’t contact you. Take satisfaction that your vacation plan is working.
6. Flush work out of your mind. Put the components of your life in perspective. Recharge your batteries. Read things totally unrelated to your work. Get plenty of rest.
7. Be prepared to double your efforts when you return from vacation to catch up and go ahead with your work.
Career Tip: It’s well to remember that there is no record of anyone wishing on their deathbed that they had spent less time on vacation.
