Taking time off should be simple—but for many, switching off is harder than ever.
Did you know…
- 66% of employees frequently work when they’re meant to be off
- Hybrid workers are more likely to blur the boundaries between work and rest
- The average UK employee takes only 77% of their annual leave
- More emails are read on mobile devices than on laptops or desktops
- Holidays reduce stress, lower risk of heart disease, and boost productivity
Despite the proven benefits of rest, many people feel pressure to stay connected—checking emails, staying “just a bit” involved, or worrying about what they’re missing. This kind of digital presenteeism doesn’t just interrupt your holiday—it contributes to burnout.
Burnout is more than just feeling tired. It’s chronic workplace stress that shows up as mental exhaustion, disconnection, and poor performance. The inability to fully detach—even for a short holiday—can fuel long-term harm to wellbeing and engagement.
Try these practical tips to truly switch off:
Prioritise
You may never get everything done, in fact not many us have ever really fully ticked off that to-do list, so focus on what truly matters. Block out your final day at work for loose ends and last-minute prep.
Prepare
In the lead-up to your holiday, brief your clients and colleagues well in advance. Make clear who to contact while you’re away and set expectations early. Keep your return day meeting-free if you can, it’ll help you re-enter calmly and catch up.
Use a clear out-of-office message
Be firm and specific: let people know you won’t be checking emails and direct them to someone who can help. This boundary relieves pressure to “just check in.”
Create a handover doc
Make it easy for your team to operate smoothly without you. Capture key information, decisions, and contact points so you can relax knowing everything’s covered.
Take micro-digital detoxes during your holiday
If a full digital switch-off isn’t possible, set intentional “no-tech” windows like at breakfast or after 7pm. These mini breaks help reduce cognitive overload and deepen your rest.
Power off
Use a separate phone if you can. If not, set clear contact times—and more importantly, stick to them. Turn off email notifications, what’s app groups etc… so that stress-inducing red bubbles don’t tempt you.
Principles to ease the worry
Take a page from Dale Carnegie’s How to Stop Worrying and Start Living:
- Live in day-tight compartments – Yesterday is done, tomorrow is unknown—focus on today.
- Ask: What’s the worst that can happen? – Most worries are exaggerated. Ask yourself: will this matter in six months?
Organisational and leadership role models
This isn’t just about individuals—organisations and managers must role model rest. That means:
- Taking full leave, and fully disconnecting
- Respecting others’ time off and not contacting them during it
- Encouraging a culture that sees rest as essential, not indulgent
- Giving people the space and support to step up in your absence
When leaders show that switching off is not only allowed but valued, it empowers others to do the same. building a healthier, more productive workplace.
And finally… relax. You deserve it.
Taking a break isn’t just good for you—it’s good for your team and your business. Plan ahead, power down, and give yourself permission to fully rest. You’ll return more creative, more focused, and more resilient.
