Tips for the busy professional when going on vacation

Vacation is going to happen and you need to have balance so that you can enjoy your time off. We all have plenty we are responsible for and it isn’t always easy to pull away. There is that commitment to your health and wellness, taking care of your body, and being very conscious of what you are eating and drinking all at the same time.  Not to mention, a new passion, blogging, an obligation to keeping your blog updated. Have you ever been challenged to be still, relax and let go on your vacation to clear your mind so you are refreshed, rejuvenated, focused and more effective upon your return and needing the tools so that you can do this effectively?

Designating the right person can help. Delegating responsibilities is one of the most challenging functions of a manager to learn to do.  Building a relationship with your associate or team members is crucial if you are to put yourself in a good position so you CAN get away without interruption. The key is to really find the most capable, reliable, person that you believe can manage your everyday tasks while you’re on vacation. It is also important to trust and that is a process which takes time and practice. Let go and give an opportunity for your newly appointed helpmate to be creative as they use their talent and you will be pleasantly surprised.

Some tips for a busy professional:

Prepare in advance:

Make a list of important procedures and information. Design a plan before you go away what you desire to happen if certain situations occur and communicate with your team.  This way you know that you did all you could to have things the same as if you were making the decision yourself, the day it occurs while you are away and not in the office. It is also a good idea to go over important matters with your clients in advance of your departure.  They really appreciate you being in touch with them and you do not want them to take their business elsewhere.

Have some trial runs before you go on vacation for a week, practice turning over the responsibility. You can even take a real mini-vacation or pretend you are and do something different such as taking a long weekend just to test the waters.

Create a way to communicate with your office:

Taking your business with you when you travel will not work for everyone. Your chances of a worry-free vacation are much improved when you do as you’re still able to keep tabs on situations and deal with challenges as they arise and create solutions.  When I travel, I prefer E mail as a way to communicate with team members, and associates.

In these times, it seems wherever you go the ability to get a connection to the internet exists and you can always use a cell phone if absolutely necessary.  You can always bring a lap top which makes it more convenient even though most places this will incur additional cost.  Nobody says you have to be on call day and night and not enjoy your vacation.  It’s important to communicate, be open to express your feelings and desires.

If you are going overseas you can rent a cell phone, buy minutes at a minimal cost now that technology is so practical and advanced. Remember you don’t need to spend a fortune; this is only to be used for an emergency, not to socialize.  There are times when unexpected things occur and a phone comes in handy.  As long as you can work remotely you can use your cell phone, lap top in order to keep your communication effective.

Decide what an emergency is and under what circumstances do you want your replacement to contact you while you’re on vacation? Be clear about your expectations. Meet with the person who’s going to be backing you up and see what concerns she or he has. Having someone else be in control of things for brief periods, even if it’s just a day, will give you both the chance to see how things go and work out the details of your “away” plan.

Keep your commitment:

What are you responsible for that you promised you would get done while away?  Do what you say that you promise to get done while you are away.  When you can be trusted people desire to do business with you.

Always have a backup plan:

Start early to get what you promised done so you can keep your word, responsibility and your promise. For example, the responsibility of writing and article while away. I learned your battery can be low on your computer, or a part brakes and you have no access to your hard drive. Send your files that you are using to AOL, G-mail, Hotmail, wherever your email is, so you can have access.  Realize your personal files on your computer such as word or excel you will not be able to access but you will be able to get what you send to you E mail accounts.

If you are little more computer savvy, back up your files to a small flash drive which are very inexpensive, easy to use and convenient. With a flash drive you are able to have a back up to your own files from your home or office computer for reference without an internet connection.

Your own personal health is important:

Clear your mind. You are worth more to your clients, employees, and yourself when you rejuvenate, refresh, relax and have some fun while on vacation.  Take a few days and step away from your daily habits and routines. If you are anxious, wound up and challenged by having to relax, stop for a moment reach out to a friend for support. Remember someone would do the same for you.  Your friends have words of wisdom that will calm your thoughts. Don’t forget to say ‘Thank You’! You must show your appreciation by being grateful for the what is in your life.

You matter, so give yourself permission to take the time off and rejuvenate your brain, rest your body and change your routine. A vacation should be a period of time you experience different things, not do more of the same. Make sure you allow your vacation to do what it’s supposed to do… rejuvenate and refresh your mind, spirit and body for improved personal health. The time away will empower you to move forward with clarity and a renewed purpose.

Remember when you are away to take full advantage of what is available to you when it comes to technology so you can achieve a worry-free vacation. Your chances of really enjoying your time away are greatly improved because you prepared in advance and are still able to keep tabs on situations and deal with the challenges if they arise.  A vacation is a refreshing necessity and well deserved for everyone.  When you prepare in advance, create clear communication, institute a backup plan and incorporate a commitment of trust you will find that the return home will be much more enjoyable.  Getting to take a vacation in the future will be a whole lot easier and rewarding. Make your life easier and create an excellent vacation! ~Bonnie

Bonnie S. Gortler

Bonnie Gortler, a Consultant, Coach, and Author, is a Wealth & Well-Being expert with over 35 years of experience in managing multi-million-dollar client portfolios at a top-rated investment firm. As the author of Journey to Wealth, Bonnie is dedicated to teaching the importance of risk management and achieving true financial well-being by integrating both the technical and mental aspects of investing. With an M.B.A. and certification as a life coach, Bonnie combines her passion for coaching, consulting, and blogging to inspire people globally. Her powerful techniques and winning mindset help others experience personal growth and financial success. Explore wealth-building tips, personal development strategies, and more at BonnieGortler.com, and discover how you can enhance your wealth and well-being.  


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