Improve Personal Performance – Even While on Vacation or Holiday
Most American Entrepreneurs find it difficult to step away from their work, I know, I am one of them. However, one thing I have learned over the years is that taking time off is not only good for relationships with family and friends, but good for business. The Europeans are very good at stepping away from work to take time for family and friends. Americans, not so much.
Here’s what I’ve learned over the years – let me know if I’ve missed anything…
1. It Can Wait
It doesn’t matter what comes up, there will always be more to do. A crisis may require some delegation. However, for the most part, you already know that there will always be something new that requires your time and attention. So, taking a day, or two, or ten, isn’t going to get you caught up. Your work will never be done.
2. Taking Time off is Good For Your Business
Time away from the business is healthy. It enables the team you left behind to step-up, exercise their problem-solving talents, and appreciate your contribution – that is if you have built a good team and are a good leader. The alternative of course is that all hell breaks loose. In which case you have a new priority when you return: to build a new team.
3. Taking Time Off is Good For Creative Thought
You know I’m right. Sometimes extracting yourself from the day-to-day routine is the only way to invite creative thought. You must turn off the automatic-pilot your brain operates on in a typical day to create space for new thoughts, fresh perspective and new ideas.
4. Time Off Provides Fresh Perspective
This is true for any aspect of your life, but taking time away from the business exposes you to new people, places and ideas, which can give you fresh perspective on a specific problem or solution.
5. Taking Time Off is Good for Your Body
Time away from the business can be stressful for some. However, when you commit to truly stepping away from work, your stress levels go down, you relax, and may even find yourself enjoying the company of humans in conversation that has nothing to do with business.
6. Taking Time Off is Good for Relationships
If you are reading this, I am pretty confident that you have been told, on at least one occasion, that you work too much. Probably by a family member or friend. So, do yourself a favor and turn off the devices, turn your attention to loved ones and give them your full attention. I promise you the rewards will be worth it!
7. Taking Time Off Creates Balance
The more balanced you are as a human, the easier it is for others to relate to you, in the board room, on the soccer field, or on your next business trip. After all, we are all human, and we learn how much we have in common with others, when we take the time to notice.
And, if you still need a business reason to take time off – balance makes us more real and relevant to those we influence, and are influenced by, in every aspect of life.
Give yourself permission. Take the time off, and enjoy yourself..it will do you wonders!
