Work can become all-consuming, especially during big projects and challenging deadlines. Working from home can add another element, making it harder to step away from work. Hard work isn’t a bad thing by any stretch of the imagination, but knowing how and when to step away from work is important.
Here are some tips for finding ways to put work on the backburner for an hour or a week, depending on what you can manage.
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1. Vacation
The most commonly thought of escape from the workplace is a vacation. A trip can be a wonderful getaway from any tensions and built-up stress caused by your job, coworkers, and any other number of stressors. The itinerary can fit your wants, needs, and desires, meaning there is no set way to book your vacation.
Choose something you enjoy doing or a relaxing setting with your loved ones to make the most of your time away. Catch up on sleep and restore good vibes as you enjoy spending more time with your family or friends that you may have had limited time with due to a hectic schedule or workload. A peaceful panama canal cruise could be the perfect choice for some relaxation, pampering, and self-care as you take a much-needed break from work.
2. Family Time
Children grow so fast. Sadly, work can cause us to miss many events. Family time is a beautiful way to step away from work. By being present, instead of checking emails or making work calls from home, you can appreciate your children and family more fully. Set aside time each day to balance yourself with appreciation and gratitude for your family.
You work hard to support and provide for them but remember to let them be a source of comfort, a reduction of work stretch, and a reason to slow down. Family time can be as simple as dinner together followed by a walk, a game night, or an evening catching up while spending time outside.
There are so many ways to enjoy your family, and I can’t think of a better way to make yourself slow down at work than by spending more intentional time with your loved ones.
3. Exercise
So what about when vacation isn’t an option? Don’t fret! There are plenty of other options to help you distance yourself from your work to improve your mind and body. Daily exercise is the perfect way to burn off the extra frustrations of the workplace while improving your overall health.
A morning workout can provide you with a boost in energy and focus throughout the workday. A midday workout on your lunch break may help you let go of the morning’s stressors and prepare for the afternoon. An evening workout may help release the tension of the day.
There is no right or wrong time to work out, making it flexible for any schedule and needs. Stress can put you at higher risk for some chronic illnesses. Exercise has been proven to decrease the risk for certain diseases and lower stress levels, making it an optimal choice for destressing.
4. Hobby
An overwhelming work schedule may leave you feeling like you have little time for anything else in your life. Setting aside time for a hobby you enjoy may help to reduce your stress levels. Hobbies are a great way to step away from work for a short period.
Try getting into bed a half-hour early to give yourself time to unwind with your favorite book if you enjoy reading. Joining a recreational sports league could provide you with a few hours of distraction from work while allowing you to spend time with friends.
Stress can have many negative effects on the body and mind. Most often, work is a large source of this stress. Dedication to your job is a wonderful attribute, but you must also make sure to take care of your wellbeing. Learn to take the occasional break from work to relax, restore peace and catch up on things you enjoy. You’ll be glad you did!
