I just finished my most ambitious project of the year – 10 straight days of doing absolutely no work.
As you know, it’s not easy to unplug for this long in today’s world. In fact, it’s a little scary (what will they do without me… who will answer those emails… who’ll manage the team, and so on). But I’m lucky - I have terrific clients who understand the value of pulling completely away from work to spend time with your family, kick up your feet and simply relax and recharge.
Even though I didn’t stay connected to the real world, I (re)learned a few valuable lessons about work and my place in the grand scheme of things. In no particular order, here are a few of my reflections:
1) The world can get along just fine without you. This realization breeds true gratitude, really. The next time you’re feeling indispensible, think again. You’re not as important as you think you are – cherish your opportunity to contribute and be part of something bigger than you.
2) There are always things you can do better. From presentations to relationships, getting away from work can spark some positive thoughts about how to make changes in your work life. Spend your down time thinking about work in this way (not the what, but the how) and you’ll capitalize on your reflective powers in a new and constructive way. Relish what you’ve accomplished, and concentrate on your own self-improvement as opposed to worrying about the work itself.
3) Remember who you’re working for. Some wise leader once told me that you work AT your company, not FOR it. You’re working, ultimately, for you and your family. Your employer is merely where you choose to apply your skills to achieve this ultimate goal. Look around you on vacation – your family and friends are your real reason for working.
Hopefully, you’ve had a chance to get away this summer, or better yet, still have some vacation or holiday time coming. My advice – use it wisely. Try to step away from the details of the job… instead, reflect on your overall purpose for working and how to contribute more effectively. If you just have to think about work, focus on how you can improve your leadership brand, be a better colleague, or achieve greater work-life balance when you return. In other words, use your down time to reflect on why you’re working, what really matters, and how you can get more enjoyment out of the job.
Best wishes for a relaxing holiday – and try to unplug if you can. Trust me, the job will be there when you get back.
Comments
I used to have a leader who gave a little pep talk we liked to call the "kick up your feet" speech. Every year right before the holidays we would gather for a departmental celebration, and at the end he would begin the offering:
We've had a great year, we've done a lot of great things, and now it's time to disconnect. Turn off your blackberries and tune out for a while. The work will be here when you get back. Kick up your feet and say thanks to your families. The challenges will be even greater next year, so re-charge your batteries. And remember what's important, because after all, we're not curing cancer.
Interestingly, this particular leader had literally never taken a vacation and was known for emailing people at all hours seven days a week. But despite the irony, we all found the speech extremely motivational and looked forward to it every year. It reminded us to put things in perspective, which is very important as a leader.
Thanks for the reminder Steve.
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