We know that sometimes it is not easy to completely disconnect from work. On many occasions, we take homework out of our regular hours and even during vacation periods. Answering calls or checking emails outside of work has become commonplace. So normal is this habit today, that there is a debate about the right to digital disconnection of employees, that is, the right to forget about our work obligations in our free time or rest.
We know from numerous investigations (and from our own experience in many cases) that the absence of disconnection from work has a negative impact on the physical and mental health of those who tend not to break with the routine. By continuing with a non-stop work rhythm, the only thing that we achieve is that we reach exhaustion and it is easier to get frustrated by not finding quick and creative solutions in our workplace. In other words, the consequences of not stopping thinking about our responsibilities can lead to serious health problems.
So what can we do to truly rest on vacation? Here are some recommendations and measures to be able to enjoy leisure time without the shadow of work being present:
- Disconnect electronic devices. In other words, turn off your mobile phone at work and avoid checking corporate email. If this is not possible, limit the connection. That is, agree to a specific time throughout the day to connect and then disconnect again.
- Get organized in advance. It will also help us to keep everything tight, close as many topics as possible before the holidays, and communicate in advance the days that we will be out of the office.
- Plan a vacation where the environment changes, there are no times, and new things are explored. On the contrary, if we are going to stay at home, it is important to organize things to do because if we watch television all the time, it is most likely that we get bored easily and feel the need to reconnect with work.
- Be aware of the time you need to disconnect. Normally 2 weeks in a row are recommended, but other people need more time. Be aware of this when planning your vacation.
If even following these recommendations, it is difficult to disconnect: tranquil @, it is normal and it is a matter of learning and habit. Remember that the body, and especially the mind, reach these exhausted periods of the year, and they need a break to get the most out of it.
Maria Jose Ortega