As a career and life coach, I've often encountered healthcare workers who struggle with burnout. They feel tethered to their jobs, unable to find a moment for themselves. I've been there too. One day, I found myself calling my mother in tears, saying I needed a vacation. My mother, who had a timeshare, had been offering to take us on a trip for a while. I always felt it wasn’t the right time because I needed to “save my vacation.”
In my job, vacation and sick time were lumped into one pool, and I always had the sense that I needed to save my time… just in case. I also worried that my workplace couldn't function without me. In reality, this wasn’t true. I needed to shift my perspective.
The Wake-Up Call
At home, we had a toddler and a four-year-old in daycare, which meant constant colds and illnesses. One of our parents seemed to have a health emergency every few months. My husband and I both had demanding jobs that we found meaningful, but we had no time to recover. At work, there was always one fire after another, and no slow time existed. My cup was empty—I was giving all I had without finding a way to replenish my energy.
I hadn’t thought about sharing my workload at the office and feared taking a vacation would result in a huge pile of work upon my return. In my fear of using my days, I forgot to use them and lost some because of a maximum carry-over limit. I lost the opportunity to cash them out and, more importantly, lost the chance to rest and recover.
The Trip That Changed Everything
My frustration grew at home and at work. I was too exhausted to go out with friends. After my tearful phone call, my mom booked a trip for us. My mom, her best friend, my girls, and I headed to Cancun. My husband joined us later. In hindsight, it was the best type of vacation. There were many hands to help manage the children, activities to distract them, and I enjoyed watching them have fun. The adults created great memories, and I relaxed in the sunshine with a book by the pool—my favorite type of vacation.
Despite being in Cancun during hurricane season and dealing with mosquitoes and the threat of storms, it was exactly what I needed. I had fun, relaxed, and made new memories. This trip didn’t change everything, but it made a small change. Now, there’s never a time when I don’t have a vacation planned. Sometimes it’s just a long weekend, but I always have dedicated time for relaxation, rejuvenation, and fun. I also plan how other team members will cover for me, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Plan Your Time Off
So, I ask you—do you have your next vacation, staycation, or long weekend planned? If not, I encourage you to take a few minutes, look at your calendar, and schedule your time off now.
Remember, taking time off is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for maintaining your mental and physical health. Start planning your next break today!
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