You work hard and look forward to those days and weeks when you don’t have to be in the office. But, do you ever take a real vacation, a true holiday away from anything work-related?
If you’re like most professionals today, the answer is no. In a recent ELVTR survey1 of 2,300 North American employees, nearly 70% of respondents admitted to working on vacation. Almost 60% said they felt anxious about leaving their inbox unattended.
This inability to unplug can negatively affect your health, mood, relationships, and overall life. The truth is you need to disconnect fully from your work from time to time.
We’ll share the many benefits of letting your vacation be a vacation and how to actually get away from your desk. That way, you can rest, recharge, and return to the office better than ever.
Taking time to truly escape work can positively impact multiple facets of your life. Here are just a few.
Mind: When you allow your brain to relax, stress can melt away. Feelings of anxiety and depression may subside, and you’ll likely feel more optimistic and happier.
Body: When your mind is healthier, your body will usually follow suit. Reduced stress levels may help you sleep better and lower your risk of illness.
Work: Deliberately stepping away from your work may stave off burnout and allow you to return with renewed enthusiasm and a fresh perspective.
Life: When you work long hours, the quality of your relationships could suffer, and your hobbies may start to collect dust. Re-engaging with your loved ones and interests can restore bonds and get you reacquainted with your creative outlets.
Saying bon voyage to your professional responsibilities can be challenging. Doing so may bring up feelings of anxiety or guilt. If that’s the case, take a deep breath and remind yourself you need and deserve this time off. Following the guidance below can make it easier for you to detach without worry.
Schedule for slow periods: You may find it easier to relax knowing not much is happening in the office.
Take shorter trips more often: Less work will likely pile up in your absence.
Get ahead at work: You won’t have to stress out over missing deadlines or falling behind while away.
Clean your workspace: Returning to a clutter-free zone will make the transition back to the office smoother.
Put vacation on your calendar: Everyone will have an advanced notice of your leave, making it less likely they will disturb you or try to book you for meetings.
Delegate important tasks: If work must get done while you’re gone, assigning it to someone you trust can help you forget about it.
Set up an out-of-office message and include an alternate contact. When someone emails you, they will automatically get notified that you’re away and there’s someone else they can reach out to for urgent matters.
Turn off work-related notifications. You don’t need to be prompted to engage with the office while you’re away.
Turn off your work phone: Better yet, leave it at home or in the office.
Don’t check emails: If you must keep tabs, commit to looking only once per day.
Stay busy: It’s tough to update a spreadsheet or respond to an email at a concert or while hiking.
Practice mindfulness: Stay in the moment and soak up every second of your getaway.
Schedule a rest day at home: You’ll appreciate the time to do laundry, meal prep, and mentally transition out of vacation mode.
Ask your team for an email update the day before your return: Read it the following morning to get back in the loop quickly.
Block off time on your calendar: That way, you can catch up and get reacclimated in peace.
Bring back a souvenir: A reminder of your first real vacation in years will make you smile.
Removing yourself from your work may feel impossible but doing so is a must. If you’ve tried to disengage, but your current employer doesn’t support your need for a work-life balance, you may need a job or career change. Becoming a financial professional can help you earn a lucrative living to provide for your family and give you ample time to spend with them, too. Learn more about being a financial professional by reaching out.
1 https://elvtr.com/blog/americas-alarming-lack-of-work-life-balance
This article is provided for general informational purposes only. Neither New York Life Insurance Company, nor its agents, provides tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax, legal, or accounting professional before making any decisions.
SMRU #6452892 exp. 3/18/2026