When you've been away from the office and your day to day environment for a couple of weeks, you get the opportunity to take a step back and get a fresh perspective on your life.
- You've spent more time with family and friends.
- You've had time to exercise.
- You've got
away from it all (I hope).
- You've relaxed and been able to de-stress.
Holidays can be a time when you might decide to make a few changes to your life.
- You notice you've been working long hours.
- You realise the limited time you normally spend with family and friends.
- You've felt the impact lack of exercise, poor eating habits, stress of a growing workload and too little
sleep.
However, once you're back at work it's easy to slip back into your daily work routine. You forget your good intentions, as the memory of your holiday rapidly fades.
- Keep work in perspective. Know what you need to get done. Focus on what's important and plan what you need to get done each day.
- Avoid distractions and interruptions which waste
time.
- Take regular breaks - not always easy but important. Even after a short 5-10 minute break you'll feel refreshed and you'll be more productive.
- Set limits - if you have a tendency to work late. Reduce them to a more sensible level. Decide to finish early at least one or two evenings a week.
- Make sure you plan time for yourself, your family and friends and book it in your diary.
Think
about the benefit to you, your career or your personal life of managing your time better. Review your progress regularly to stay focused, on track and prevent you from slipping back into bad habits.
- Write down any changes you want to make - before you forget them. Get your thoughts and ideas on paper.
- Book a regular time for exercise in your diary.
- Commit to a shorter working day. Set your
start and end times and stick to it. Could you consider flexible working.
- Update your CV. Maybe it's time for a change of career or you want to get promoted. What skills or abilities do you need? Book on a training course, learn new skills or work with a coach or mentor who can help you get there.
- Make yourself accountable. Tell someone what you plan to do and when. Whether it's a friend, colleague, mentor or
coach. Agree to report your progress and meet up for a review on a regular basis.
If you want to make the most of your holiday inspiration, make changes, get motivated and be held accountable, get in touch for a free chat.