The Challenge of Disconnecting from Work on Vacation
Many people find it difficult to fully disconnect from work during their vacations due to poor planning, constant connectivity, and feelings of guilt for relaxing instead of being productive.
According to the “Work in Progress” survey by Buk, 63% of workers in Mexico continue to engage in work activities during their vacation periods.
Expert Advice on Meaningful Disconnection
Ana Cecilia Martínez Jiménez, an expert in mental health and occupational risk prevention, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing personal activities for a fulfilling and work-free vacation.
“It’s essential to understand that this is a period with a clear beginning and end, not an endless cycle. Set daily priorities by deciding ‘what I will focus on today,’” she advises.
Martínez Jiménez also highlights the need to establish boundaries, as she explains that during vacations, people often blur personal and professional lines, leading to conflicts.
Cobee suggests that companies should encourage employees to stay away from electronic devices or mute work-related apps to ensure a true disconnect.
“Don’t schedule loved ones; enjoy their company fully. Before returning from vacation, take two or three days to gradually adjust to reality and ease back into work,” Cobee recommends.
Positive Effects of Disconnecting and Resting
Runa asserts that rest contributes to the physical and mental well-being of workers, enhancing productivity and easing their transition back to work.
In addition to these positive outcomes, UKG highlights the following benefits of genuinely disconnecting and resting during vacations:
- Spending time with loved ones: Vacations are an opportunity to enjoy the company of family, friends, or a partner, which positively impacts mental health.
- Reducing burnout: The work routine can be overwhelming, causing physical and mental fatigue. Taking days off helps alleviate this exhaustion.
- Boosting self-motivation: Stepping away from routine clears the mind of work-related tasks, allowing for mental purification.
“Enjoy your time off from the office and recognize that no one is perfect. Employees shouldn’t strive to accomplish 200 daily goals; instead, they should focus on living in the moment and enjoying their vacations,” Ana Cecilia advises.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Why is it challenging for people to disconnect from work during vacations? A: Poor planning, constant connectivity, and feelings of guilt for relaxing instead of being productive make it difficult to fully disconnect.
- Q: What advice do experts offer for a meaningful vacation? A: Prioritize personal activities, set clear daily priorities, and establish boundaries between work and personal life.
- Q: How can companies help employees disconnect from work during vacations? A: Encourage staying away from electronic devices and mute work-related apps to ensure a true disconnect.
- Q: What are the positive effects of genuinely disconnecting and resting during vacations? A: Improved physical and mental well-being, reduced burnout, and increased self-motivation.
