In today’s high-stress business world, the key to more productivity may be in simply taking a vacation. But, not just any vacation, says Michael Dalton Johnson, the publisher of a popular sales advice site.
Johnson advocates what he calls “disconnect vacations” where business people free themselves from the electronic leashes that bind them to a complicated and stressful world. He advises leaving cell phones, PDAs and laptops at home and avoiding newspapers, radio and television while on vacation.
The surprising result is more productivity upon return to the workplace. Johnson cites studies indicating that productivity can increase by as much as 50% after a “disconnect vacation.”
Johnson suggests that overworked professionals take time during their “disconnect vacations” to get close to nature, take walks, enjoy sunsets, sleep in, read a good book and have a long soak. They should avoid standing in lines. Casinos, amusement parks and big cities are strictly off limits. "Just get lost," says Johnson.
“Cutting loose from deadlines and obligations frees the spirit and renews enthusiasm and is ultimately good for business,” says Johnson. “When returning to work rejuvenated business people enjoy new energy, greater focus, creativity and far better productivity.”
Johnson holds that Type A personalities often experience a rise in anxiety at the very thought of disconnecting. However, when they get past the anxiety and think a bit further down the road, they see a desirable business benefit. Once they consider the possibility of supercharging their productivity they are ready to pack their bags.
Editorial Note: A full summary of Mr. Johnson’s advice on Disconnect Vacations is available at www.SalesDog.com. He can be reached at michael@salesdog.com.
