How to Make Like Elsa and Let it Go for the Holidays

January 1, 2015

We are programmed to work until we can’t anymore… then keep going. The problem with that is your mind and body can’t function at the same capacity as it would if you took a break – even an occasional break. Scientific evidence shows your body needs that vacation to recoup.

Let it go

40% of Americans don’t plan on using their vacation time. If there is one thing we can learn from Frozen, it’s that we need to let go. Use the holiday season to take time from work so when you come back, you’re recharged and mentally prepared to give your best.

Turn away and slam the door

There will always be a proposal, project, or deadline you have to meet. With every pay stub, your paid vacation and sick days pile up. Despite your constant self-reassurance that you will in fact use them one day, one day never comes. Your brain needs those days off to slow down.

A vacation gives your brain the chance to daydream. Even though it’s something we are typically reprimanded for in school, it’s a good thing. Daniel J. Levitin, Director of the Laboratory for Music, Cognition and Expertise at McGill University and author of “The Organized Mind: Thinking Straight in the Age of Information Overload,” said this downtime is essential to provoke the evolution of creativity and insight. Even while on vacation, 61% of employees will work. So in effect, they aren’t exactly taking a vacation for what it’s worth – a chance to recharge creativity.

It’s funny how some distance makes everything seem small

Separate yourself from the office. The distance will give you perspective on projects that may be particularly taxing. The time away will make the supervisor that leaves you utterly drained at the end of the day seem not so bad. You have to be able to properly unplug while on vacation. That means it’s not necessary to disconnect from the internet in its entirety. Rather, disconnect from work-related responsibilities. Alexandra Samuel (@awsamuel) gives some suggestions in planning your unplugging:

● Decide which devices you will (and won’t) bring with you ahead of time and don’t deviate from your tech packing plan!

● Choose which accounts you can keep turned on (Instagram! Foursquare! Yelp! Facebook!) and which may make you stress even unintentionally (LinkedIn! Email! Facebook!)

● Set up an out of office reply that clearly explains when you’ll be back (we suggest adding an extra day onto the end so you can play catch-up!)

● While you’re on vacation, be on vacation. Turn off notifications and leave work at the office. They will do FINE without you.

No right, no wrong, no rules for me… I’m free

Your (well-deserved) vacation will not only help you see the bigger picture on projects, it can also help you do better on your performance reviews. That means you have to use your vacation time. The time away from the rules and regulations of your office allows you to think clearly and see the value of them when you return. It stands to reason that you would receive better marks on your performance appraisals.

In fact, 10 hours of extra vacation time can result in an 8% increase in your performance review the next year. Even though most Americans are afraid to take vacation in fear of a poor review, the opposite is true. It can boost your performance and subsequently your performance review.

Although it is hard to leave the office and take time for yourself and your family, it will do your mind, body, and professional development good. Break the constant work cycle with a vacation strategically planned to disconnect from work. Take Elsa’s lead and simply let it go. You’ll see your creativity and performance blossom upon your return to the office. And so will your team!

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