As a business owner, a parent and busy adult, taking time away from all of our responsibilities can become more of a burden than a luxury. Just mention the word "vacation" and you're ususally met with a rolling of the eyes and maybe even clicking of the teeth. But as working, busy adults it is so very important to take time out for ourselves during this hectic holiday season and during the year as well. What's even more important is that as leaders in the home or in business, we have to make sure to take time out to energize and refresh ourselves if we want to remain sharp and intact.
As I was thinking on ways that leaders can relax, I let my mind wander as I checked out this post at corporate treat about a spa resort wonderland. I almost began salivating as I was reading it and envisioning myself there, relaxing and taking things easy. As a busy professional, it's moments like the one in that picture that we only dream about. But, also as busy professionals, we must take the time to rejuvenate, relax and regroup ourselves to be quality, effecitve leaders.
At a loss for what and how to actually take a vacation? This article gave me some great tips on how I can build vacation time into my life and still rejuvenate. Also, here is where I found information on the feasability of taking a vacation. But since I am a self-prescribed workaholic, I want to offer some things that I have found that allow me to relax and rejuvenate when necessary and that also keep me from becoming too overworked:
1) Limit the number of hours in the day that you're going to work. Being a small business owner can wreak havoc on your time management goals. Small business owners typically feel as if they're working all of the time. While they usually are, it's a good habit to set definite hours so you don't overwork or burnout too quickly.
2) Delegate tasks that can be done by independent contractors or those employees under you. Don't try to be a do-it-all. This is a fast road to burnout.
3) Keep your weekends work-free. Don't go into the office or the store on the weekends to do a quick job. It is almost never anything quick and your work-week that was 50 hours can easily turn into 60 or 70 if you're not careful.
While I may not be able to relax all of the ways that I envision, I can still think about and make plans for my own version of relaxing. What about you. What are some things that you do as a leader or a manager to relax?
You've got some great tips! I tend to plan blocks of time I allow myself to work on my business, but sometimes I just get on a roll and then burnout hits by the time I stop. Thanks for reminding us workaholics to step back every now and then.
Posted by: Katie | December 11, 2007 5:49 PM | Permalink to Comment