Why is this? 2020 and 2021 have been tough mentally, emotionally and sometimes physically for people. Naturally the human tendency is to do more.
As we enter the last few days of 2021, I would remind you of the importance of taking time off.Leaders that have the best influence, take time off and encourage others to take time off.
Not only do vacations help with mental clarity but it gives your team space between work and life. With people working at home, that separation of work/home is a little more difficult right now just based on the terrain of the world.
Travel is less available to everyone than it has been. Some people are traveling still but as a society, the travel industry is down overall.
When working from home, encourage your employees to consider “vacations” as tools for focused family time, caregiving, and self-care. Down time is likely to be devoted to supporting good mental health rather than recreation or travel. Don’t expect them at meetings or to be checking email. Time off should be that, time off.
As a leader, you need to model behavior that you want. You will need to demonstrate through your own actions that you’re serious about time off. Most people think it is important to take time off, but they are also personally reluctant to unplug. What you say is less important than what you do.
So how as a leader can you encourage your team to really be off and communicate their security at that same time?
This is where the communication skills of today’s leaders must be dialed in. Know what your people are doing, where they are excelling and communicate to them early and often if you see gaps in performance. Encourage time off to stop burn out and ensure they know how valuable they are to the team (even if improvements can be made).
As you lean into the last few days of 2021, rest, renew, restore connection and be present with those you love most. You doing this will allow your team to do it too.
Happy Holidays!
Best,
Manal
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