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Unplugging Your Vacation

April 3, 2018 Living Well, Travel

The value of getting away from your work routine is apparent to every leisure and mental health expert. Overextending yourself to stay connected takes a real toll mentally, physically and financially. Individuals benefit greatly when they take time to recharge, refocus and replenish mind, body and spirit by periodically letting go of everyday professional responsibilities.

Yet, in a country where people tend to define their identities by their job titles, where toiling away for long hours is seen as a measure of true worth – and where there exists a palpable fear that someone might slip into a temporarily vacated position – less than half take true vacations. Even among that number, many are reluctant to sever the technological umbil­ical cord to their workplace. It’s all too common to see so-called vacationers on the beach, in mountain cabins or on a cruise staring intently at smartphones, laptops or tablets instead of the vistas before them.

Digital Detox

You know the feeling. You hear a buzz or a ding and you automatically reach for your phone or tablet. It’s almost Pavlovian, this urge to check the alert as soon as you become aware of it. For many, it’s the new norm. But it doesn’t have to be. Those digital distractions may have you missing out on something more important: Work-life balance.

While pulling the plug on our digital addiction may not be easy, it will likely be worth the effort, especially when you’re on vacation. Disconnecting gives you back quality time for yourself and your family and allows you to mentally and spiritually recharge. And to do so without those nagging thoughts that something desperately requires your attention back home.

The Rules

Cut the Cord

Commit to no (Okay, maybe limited) technology on your trip. Research and plan important details ahead like day trips, vehicle rentals, accommo­dations, and restaurants so you don’t feel you need a technological lifeline.

Go Remote

Get off the grid in remote locations, where cell towers are few and internet connections spotty. National parks in the American and Canadian West (not to mention remote parts of the planet) have wireless dead spots. You will be unplugged – naturally. Just make sure everyone knows you intend to stay that way.

Delegate a Proxy

Tag one trusted person with your vacation information to let you know if there is an emergency. At work, delegate time-sensitive matters to someone before you leave.

Work, Then Play

Many who don’t take vacations (or won’t unplug while away from home) fear the volume of work that will greet them upon return. Finish known projects ahead of time and delegate others. Let your vacation be an actual vacation.

Use Technology for Good

Turn on your phone messaging service and email auto reply. Don’t even think about peeking while you’re in vacation mode.

Follow Through

Do not answer queries – not one; unless, of course, it is a true emergency. Reinforce the idea that “unavailable” means unavailable. Even as you’re learning what it means to be “out of touch,” ensure that your co-workers understand it, too.

Tweet Not

Nor post on Facebook, Instagram or whichever platform you habitually use. Put them all on lockdown. Become “antisocial” at least in terms of social media. Be where your feet are and enjoy your vacation.

Step Back in Time

If constant communication is such a part of you that you can’t sleep, opt for a real camera for picture taking (ditch the cellphone) and surprise friends and family by sending some postcards the old-fashioned way (with real postage stamps).

Prepare for Re-Entry

Even if you’ve had a truly refreshing and relaxing vacation, it will end at some point. In a quiet moment, perhaps at the airport or on the plane, take an hour or two to check emails, keeping only those you need to take action on. It may help to know what you’re facing when you head back to everyday life.

Have Good Intentions

But know your limitations. If you can’t go cold turkey on tech for some reason (e.g., you are a key player, an entrepreneur or have other responsibilities that you believe simply won’t allow you to seriously unplug), do your best to let clients, employees and others know of your intention to unplug on vacation. Should something need your attention, allow yourself to check in once a day, but attempt to keep it to that.