Back in 2003, fresh off completing my graduate degree, I treated myself to a long, much-needed vacation. On the flight out, I remember thinking, “Enjoy this while it lasts, Stephen. The days of long breaks, summers off, and living semester to semester are behind you. You’re about to enter the world of 50-hour workweeks, limited vacation days, and quick, short trips.”

Now, over 20 years later, I can count on one hand the times I’ve fully disconnected from work for extended periods of time. There was my honeymoon in 2008, a family trip to Iceland in 2018, and a two-week RV adventure in 2020 to visit my in-laws during that first surreal summer of COVID - thanks to my amazing manager, Sonia, who convinced me to take the time off!

Each of those breaks required intention, planning, saving, and sometimes a little convincing. And yes, they also meant coming back to a mountain of work. But those experiences remain some of my most cherished memories. They were more than just vacations—they were opportunities to gain perspective, reconnect with myself and my loved ones, and recharge my mental health.

That said, I’ve also come to appreciate the value of shorter, more accessible breaks. Staycations or quick camping trips can be just as powerful in helping me disconnect from the daily grind and refocus on what truly matters, especially when I approach them with intention.

Here are some of the benefits I’ve experienced from taking meaningful time to disconnect:

1. Stress Reduction

Stress builds up like a toxin, and time off allows your body and mind to detox. The longer the break, the more you feel the difference—better sleep, a clearer mind, and fewer “panic moments.” You start to realize just how much stress you’ve been carrying.

2. Gaining Perspective

Stepping away from your routine allows you to see things from a different angle. Sometimes you realize just how much you’ve been grinding. Other times, you return with new insights or a fresh perspective on challenges that seemed insurmountable before.

3. Reconnecting with Yourself

In the daily hustle, we often forget to check in with ourselves. Taking a step back gives you the space to assess where you are and where you’re headed. Whether you discover contentment or recognize it’s time for a change, both are equally valuable realizations.

4. Reconnecting with Loved Ones

Repetitious routine can have us tune out and take relationships for granted. Disconnecting gives us the chance to reconnect with those who matter most. And it’s the break in routine that makes it more memorable.

5. Improved Leadership

It might seem counterintuitive, but taking time off can actually benefit your career. Modeling work-life balance for your team encourages them to do the same, fostering loyalty and engagement. Moreover, stepping away gives your team the chance to grow, take on new challenges, and build confidence in their abilities. Sometimes the best leadership move is to stop answering emails and let others step up.

I know that fully disconnecting can feel impossible for many. And I recognize that my ability to do so is derived in some way from my privilege as well as my conviction. All that being said, if what I suggest here rings true for you, I encourage you to start planning your next disconnection, whatever that may look like.

Your future self, and those you love, will thank you.

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