This week – I’ve ‘officially’ been out of the office. That means, I ‘officially’ booked some days as holiday from work, and put my out of office on – also let people know i’m on holiday and if they need anything, then let me know either before or save it till after.
But can we really disconnect?
Ok – I haven’t checked my emails. That’s one rule I made and thought to myself, if I respond to one, i’ll respond to most of them – and then, what’s the point on being on holiday?
Then, on Monday (I think it was) I received several WhatsApp messages… from Anna. Anna had a number of questions and wanted some help with something at work. I let her know i’m out of office – but the ‘inner self’ suggested a few options and suggested a few things, and then said let’s catch up when I’m back.
This made me think – and joked with Anna – maybe, I need to put my WhatsApp on ‘holiday mode’. I’ve silenced many groups (work mainly…) which i’m part of – so they don’t ping.
But in this very connected world – it’s becoming more and more of a blur… so where is the work life balance?
It’s difficult to find that balance. There will be times when work needs you most! (that’s probably most of the time!) but you, and only you, need to focus on life. And then, you’ll be able to figure out the balance. Somehow.
There’s no magic formula that I’m aware of… or is there?
No. There isn’t. So there’s ways you can have a more balanced life… and some things I’ve learnt to ensure you are switched off…
- Have 2 phones. That’s right – switch your ‘work’ phone off. Give one or two folk in your team your other number in case if the building is burning down (or other serious emergencies).
- On just holidays, but a friend once told me ‘Respect The Weekends’ – this is your time, to disconnect, re-focus and relax.
- There was a great LinkedIn post by Cristina Ghetti (I’ll let you search and read it) about being away from work, etc… and it’s a fantastic post because you know what… work will always be there.
So, whilst things are figureoutable – make sure you have time to relax. I’m back in the office tomorrow – so if you’ve emailed me, yes – I’ll aim to reply tomorrow. Till then… I’m off to spend some time with the family!