Give Yourself Permission to Unplug and Take a Vacation

After a few days off, I’ve been reflecting on the importance of vacations for executive assistants. As an EA, I know firsthand the demands of supporting a busy executive and managing complex daily operations. The role often requires constant availability, flawless organization, and the ability to handle a wide range of tasks seamlessly. Amid this fast-paced environment, prioritizing personal well-being and taking time for yourself can feel challenging, yet it’s essential. I firmly believe that giving yourself permission to unplug isn’t just beneficial—it’s crucial for maintaining productivity, creativity, and job satisfaction. In this article, I’ll explore why taking vacations is so important, offer practical tips for planning and enjoying time off, and discuss strategies for managing your workload before, during, and after your break.

The Importance of Taking Vacations

1. Rest and Rejuvenation

Vacations are essential for recharging both physically and mentally. Stepping away from daily routines lets you relax, reduce stress, and return with renewed energy and enthusiasm—not only for your own well-being but for the demands of supporting a busy executive effectively.

2. Enhanced Creativity and Problem-Solving 

Time away can stimulate creativity and foster fresh perspectives. When we’re not in constant problem-solving mode, new ideas often emerge. For example, solutions to complex challenges frequently appear during vacation downtime, giving you a refreshed approach upon return.

3. Improved Health and Well-Being

Chronic stress can take a toll on overall health, impacting energy, sleep, and even productivity. Taking regular vacations is a proactive measure to reduce burnout, recharge, and ultimately support your long-term health—enabling you to meet the role’s demands sustainably.

4. Stronger Relationships

Vacations are an opportunity to strengthen relationships outside of work and invest in your life beyond the office. Deepening these connections fosters well-being and personal fulfillment, which in turn contributes to your resilience and satisfaction in your EA role.

Overcoming Guilt and Setting Boundaries

It’s common to feel hesitation about taking time off due to the workload or concerns about being indispensable. But a balanced approach ultimately enhances your effectiveness and provides an example of sustainable work-life integration. Here are some strategies:

1. Plan Ahead

Planning your vacation well in advance minimizes disruptions. Communicate your plans with your executive and colleagues, delegate tasks where necessary, and create a detailed itinerary. This not only helps ensure a smooth workflow in your absence but also reinforces your readiness and reliability. As a planner, I schedule my vacations months in advance, ensuring I know well ahead of time when I’ll be out.

2. Set Clear Expectations

Clearly communicate your availability before leaving. Establish boundaries around work communication and designate a trusted colleague as the point of contact for any urgent matters. Showing that the role is covered reflects your preparedness and respect for the executive’s needs.

3. Encourage Cross-Training and Team Collaboration

Supporting colleagues in learning parts of your role can reduce stress for everyone during vacations. By giving team members clear instructions and access to essential resources, you empower them to cover for you seamlessly, fostering a sense of teamwork.

4. Practice Self-Care

Prioritize self-care during the lead-up to and during your vacation. Take regular breaks, disconnect, and fully recharge, ensuring that you return with the vitality needed to be productive and handle the day-to-day challenges of your role.

Practical Tips for Planning and Enjoying Your Vacation

1. Choose the Right Timing

Select a time that aligns well with the organization’s workflow and minimizes disruptions, such as non-peak seasons or when project deadlines have passed. One of the best times for me to take off is when my executive is on vacation too.

2. Disconnect Mindfully

Set boundaries for checking messages and use out-of-office replies to manage expectations, sharing an alternate contact for urgent matters. Mindful disconnection helps you fully recharge and prevents burnout.

3. Engage in Restorative Activities

Spend your time off engaged in activities that truly relax and restore you. Nature walks, creative pursuits, or simply quiet time with loved ones can do wonders for reducing stress and fostering a sense of renewal.

4. Reflect and Realign

Use vacation as an opportunity for reflection. Clarify professional and personal goals and bring back any insights gained during your time away. These perspectives often make returning to work a refreshing experience, with new ideas and strategies. I often read while on vacation, and usually bring back some new ideas to try.

Strategies for a Seamless Return

1. Plan for Re-Entry

Before returning, dedicate time to catch up on communications, review updates, and prioritize tasks. I typically block my first morning back to get fully up to speed and schedule a catch-up meeting with my executive that same day to reinforce continuity and keep things running smoothly.

2. Maintain Balance with Post-Vacation Habits

Integrate relaxation habits into your daily routine to maintain the benefits of your vacation. Short breaks, mindfulness, and movement throughout the day can sustain your energy and productivity. Getting outside for 10 minutes of fresh air can do wonders!

3. Celebrate Personal and Professional Achievements

Recognize and celebrate your experiences from time away and any accomplishments while you were gone. Sharing positive highlights and pictures with colleagues is a great way to promote a culture that values balance and well-being.

Embracing the Benefits of Vacation

Allowing yourself to unplug and take a vacation is vital for health, well-being, and sustaining a long, fulfilling career. As an EA, viewing time off as a chance for rest, personal growth, and renewed focus enables you to support your executive and organization even more effectively. By planning ahead, setting expectations, and fully engaging in restorative activities, you can return to work recharged and ready to make a meaningful impact.

Remember, time off isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Prioritizing self-care not only strengthens your ability to excel in your role but also sets a positive example for others.

Signing off for now! 🖋️👋 Thanks for making time in your busy schedule to join me. I hope you found this article helpful. Drop me a note if you have any questions, comments, or a specific topic request. Remember, you’re the unsung hero that makes everything run smoothly. Until next time, stay brilliant, stay inspired, and keep making that behind-the-scenes magic happen! 🪄 🌟🚀