Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us. — Maya Angelou
The pressure was building…
My daughter was stressing about her work schedule, daycare hours for my granddaughter, and applying to college, interspersed with loser-boyfriend tales.
My mother was worried about her health (which is relatively healthy for a 78 year old), my brother’s latest job issue, the presidential election and anything else she can conjure up.
My partner’s health continues to decline and he’s coping with constant extreme pain, while waiting for potential surgery.
My challenge is to turn off all this noise so that I keep up with client needs and business growth.
It’s not easy.
Even though I’m there for support and encouragement, I don’t get involved any deeper. If I do, my business and I suffer. However, those I love don’t comprehend the pressure all these issues put on me. They recognize the others as a nuisance; not themselves. Coping requires strict office hours on my behalf and limited exposure to their issues.
It’s not easy.
The pot was on the verge of boiling over.
It was time to get away. Thanks to the help of my virtual assistant and social media manager, it became a reality. It didn’t take much to make it happen, either. In a few hours’ time, I had my trailer packed and ready to go. Initially, I would have preferred a weekend camping trip to spare weekdays, but few spots were available last minute. Inspired by my VA’s advice to break my email habit, I decided to do the almost-unthinkable: visit the state park Sunday through Wednesday.
It was better than expected:
- No noise—only nature sounds, emphasized by a thunderstorm.
- No camping neighbors.
- No email distractions (my cell phone easily accessed my account, but I relied instead on my VA alerting me if any were urgent).
- Good cell phone reception (I didn’t share that news with my family, but was available in an emergency).
- Creative juices were active.
- Productivity was high.
- The scenery was grounding, soothing, therapeutic.
- Discount for weekday camping.
All this was topped off with no emergencies from the family, though my mother did worry about me being in the ‘wild Missouri territory’ by myself.
The journey was a success and helped me to understand that I need more me time away from those I love. It’s healthy for them; it’s healthy for me and my business.
Here are tips to ensure you get recharge time, too:
- Talk with your team members: they’ll encourage you and cover any business emergencies if they arise.
- No team? No worries. Create an email autoresponder announcing your unavailability. Follow up upon your return.
- Turn off your devices! Better yet; leave them home.
- Remember: two or three days won’t bankrupt the company.
- Sometimes the best escapes are spontaneous.
- Try something a little out of the ordinary—like getting away midweek.
- Tell your story: take time to write a few ideas on how your getaway helps your business. Anything you do to better your business will be appreciated by your clients.
When was the last time you recharged? You are probably overdue. Encourage others by sharing these tips then share your recharge story below.
(Thanks to Lisa Smelcer of Virtual Admin Experts for helping me not sweat the small stuff.)
Kristen Edens
Kris the Scribbler
A grandparent in business: making midlife better!
Originally published at kristhescribbler.com