This Talking Tuesday stems from my recent leave of absence from work. This leave ended up being a sort of reset button. I had to take some time off from work for what is likely one of the most challenging personal events of my life –and I should have done it sooner.
Now that I’ve returned and back at 110% at work –feeling energized, motivated, creative, and fully engaged at work and in my relationships –I’ve learned how to recognize when I need to take breaks for the future, and to manage stress before it feels overwhelming so I can continue functioning at my best.
Benefits of the break were:
- Reduced stress: Taking breaks interrupt the cycle of stress that can lead to being overwhelmed.
- Rest: By breaking out of the cycle of chronic stress – I was able to restore myself physically and mentally to a healthier place.
- Clearer thinking: A chronically triggered stress response can lead to decreased creativity, memory problems, and other issues. This break allowed me to return to sharper thinking.
- Increased productivity: I’ve already seen more energy, but plan to use this to pivot and make me better at my job, more available, more energetic, and more appreciative after my return.
This served as a reminder to not wait until you haven’t taken a break in a really long time to take one! Don’t wait until you find yourself losing steam, patience (and quite possibly your head) – you need to take a break for yourself. If you can feel yourself burning out –your team can probably sense it too. Make a plan, meet with your boss and take a break –as preventative care.
Taking a break not only gives you a chance to rest, it can also promote less stress, clearer thinking, and greater productivity. Below is a link to an article that provides practical tips on returning to work after a leave of absence.
This Talking Tuesday is recommended by: Michelle Cicotte
dallassda.com 