Feeling distracted this time of year? Ready to hang the “Gone Fishin” sign and check out for a bit? Summer months are tough for all of us to stay focused, but many of us don’t have the leisure of vacationing all season.
We asked a few of our veteran mentors how they keep their head in the game when they’d rather be boating or watching baseball.
We hope the following tips help you stay fresh in the heat.
From Tricia Whitlock. Brand Marketing
Give yourself actual time off on vacations. If you work through them you don’t give yourself mental space to think bigger and come back swinging post-trip. Next, mix work and play, while strengthening relationships. Have a work meeting at the dog park or Braves game! If you still lack motivation, try scaring the hell out of yourself by looking at all of the deliverables/events/to-dos you have for the Fall.
Finally, book fun winter travel plans and set goals on what you want to accomplish before you go. Better start now!
From Kevin LeClair, Entrepreneurship and Technology
I live by a book called The Energy Bus. The 10 Rules for the Ride of Your Life really helps me stay focused when I have so many other things going on. For me, #1 and #4 have been very impactful.
From Rumana Sultana. Marketing
Even when I’m busy on vacation or hosting guests, I like to check in every day for at least 30 mins to an hour (if possible). But I like to limit myself to that because if not, it can suck you in. This won’t work for everyone, but if you are someone who gets overwhelmed easily, checking in when you are busy with other things can help when you get back to your work. You won’t have to see 300 messages in your inbox or 15 new tasks in Asana. Keeping in the know, even if it’s a bit, helps me stay motivated and know what to expect.
From Karen Jones, Public Relations
Taking real time off is imperative to mental health and productivity. In this age, it’s nearly impossible for most of us to completely unplug, but unplugging is proven to strengthen the mind. Reward yourself each day by carving out an hour for a hike, bike ride or time at the pool. Get outside in the mornings and evenings when it’s not too hot. Over the summer, the majority of people take a vacation or two. Take a vacation and be present. Leave work behind for a week. When you return you’ll feel fresh, invigorated and ready to tackle that “to-do” list.
