It might seem odd to put references to productivity maintenance and stress reduction in the same title. The key is to take time off, another sometimes counterintuitive thought. How can I get things done if I'm taking off time, you ask? Well, Stephen Covey, author of "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People", spoke about sharpening the saw, i.e. making sure the tool was sharp. What is your primary tool? You!! So, if you want yourself to remain sharp and focused, you are well advised to consider doing this.

Have you ever found that you do much more work the few days before a holiday? Have you found that you solve big problems more easily when you are in relaxed state away from the office? It’s very likely that you have disconnected from work and have more energy and engagement when back at work. But you say “I can’t take a vacation, I have too much to do”.

Here are four main reasons why not taking time off will cost thousands to your organization in lost productivity:

       Stress related illnesses
       Medical/psychological problems including depression and substance abuse
       Increased absenteeism secondary to the above
       Increased turnover secondary to the above

Why is this so? Research has demonstrated that people who do not disconnect from work suffer increased levels of exhaustion. People who do disconnect recover from job/work stress and have increased engagement levels when back at work.

What if you are a professional? You have even more of a need to take time off. The work of professionals involves much thinking and learning, the very activities which consume considerable brain energy. If you don't build in periods of recovery you will reach a period of mental exhaustion, frequently referred to as burnout.

What if you cannot take time off and enjoy a holiday? One way is to select other activities during the week on breaks, after work, or on weekends. Here are some examples:

     Disconnect completely from work when the work is done.  Exercise or do a hobby that you like.
     Take some small work breaks during the day, e.g. take a short walk, meditate briefly, and listen to music.
     On daily breaks or weekends, choose more engaging activities such as hobbies, reading, socializing, or exercise.  This is in contrast to passive activities such as sitting in front of computers or television.

These are easy to implement and work great. These strategies are some reasons I have found that reduce burnout and stress for many clients with whom I’ve worked. The second reason I consistently get increased productivity for the many individuals and organizations with whom I’ve worked is helping them clear out mental clutter. If your limiting thoughts get in the way (e.g. "I don't need time away, that's weak or lack of dedication"), then consider changing those thoughts or getting the help to do so. For more information on all aspects of stress management, read our book (I Can't Take It Anymore: How to Manage Stress so It Doesn't Manage You; Paul G. Longobardi, Ph.D., and Janice B. Longobardi, R.N., B.S.N., P.H.N.) available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1542458056 . For more information about the authors and stress topics, visit our website at www.manageyourhealthandstress.com .

Take time for yourself and you will reap benefits in well being and productivity. Stress is a choice, not a given.

Good luck on your journey.

Dr. Paul Longobardi

For other information on these and related topics, please see my website at www.successandmindset.com.