It is a busy period for many employees before the summer and vacation season begins, both at work and in their personal lives. Projects need to be completed, reports finalized, and assignments submitted. Summer vacation is a time most people eagerly anticipate, offering a chance to relax and recover. This season is filled with celebrations and memorable moments, such as graduation parties, National Day, and one of the most popular holidays of the year, Midsummer. Overall, this is a time full of joy and positivity, but it can also be stressful as people try to accomplish as much as possible before the vacation starts.
What should you consider to ensure a good wrap-up before going on vacation? Here are some tips!
Create a plan and write a “To-Do List”
Before summer, there are many tasks that need to be completed. The task list is extensive, and the calendar is packed. During this intense period, it’s easy to start the vacation feeling like you haven’t accomplished everything, leaving a long list of tasks to be handled in the fall. This time requires both careful planning and flexibility to manage both work-related and personal commitments effectively. Even though the list might be long, creating a “to-do list” can help. It provides a clear overview of what needs to be done, helps prioritize tasks, and allows you to check off items as you go. Note the most important tasks that need to be finished before summer and see what can wait until after. Prepare for your return before you go on vacation, so you won’t have to spend as much time on it during your break.
Lower your ambitions and self-expectations
It’s common to place high demands on oneself, especially when aiming to perform at your best. However, before the vacation, it might be wise to reconsider and lower these demands. Focus on the most critical tasks that truly need to be completed before you take time off. Allow yourself to lower your ambitions. During the vacation, focus on activities and people you enjoy and find meaningful.
Plan how to handle work during the vacation
How available should you be? This can vary depending on your role and industry. If you can influence it, decide in advance how available you want to be. Many factors can create stress during the holiday. We are used to being constantly available via email, phone, and social media. Vacation is a time to relax and reduce screen time on social media, where we are easily influenced by others. In some industries, it’s easier to take work home. A good tip is to set your email to an out-of-office response; people will understand you are on vacation. If something urgent needs fixing, ask them to send you a text message or refer them to a colleague who is on duty.
Set aside time for recovery and activities – have fun with your colleagues
Recovery is important for everyone, regardless of how much or little is on the schedule in the final weeks before vacation. Make sure not to cancel planned team activities or after-work events with your colleagues. Having fun at work and breaking the daily routine can help reduce stress. When you have the most to do at work, it’s especially important to prioritize exercise, fun, and social activities.
Don’t be afraid to ask colleagues for help while on vacation
It can sometimes feel difficult to ask colleagues for help while you are on vacation. But it’s important to remember that delegation and collaboration are key to maintaining a smooth workflow. When you work in a team, it’s natural to help and support each other. If you dare to ask for help now, someone else might ask for your help next time. It’s about give and take, creating a work environment where everyone feels comfortable offering and receiving support. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but of strength and the ability to prioritize the team’s common goals. By sharing tasks, you can all contribute to a more balanced and efficient workplace.
In summary
Everything will work out sooner or later. Try not to stress unnecessarily and take things one step at a time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, plan ahead, and think about the future, but also live in the moment.
