A project manager coach's guide to switching off for the summer holiday

It’s summer - hurrah!

It is time for project managers to take a well deserved break. However, as you prepare for this, you often find yourself in a tug-of-war between demanding work responsibilities and your need for a summer holiday. Many of my project manager coaching clients struggle with this.

The solution is simple: drop the rope and walk away. 

Here are some tips to help you to prepare for your summer holidays, switch off and enjoy them fully.

1. Prepare and delegate: let go of the rope

Identify critical tasks that may need attention while you’re away and delegate them to trusted team members. Clear communication of roles and responsibilities will ensure your team knows what’s expected of them. This act of delegation not only distributes the workload but also empowers your team.

2. Define your limits: set boundaries

Establish firm boundaries regarding your availability during your holiday. Inform your team and stakeholders of your holiday dates, and set up an out-of-office message detailing who to contact in case of urgent matters. This helps create a protective barrier around your time, making it easier for you to step away without the constant tug of work interruptions.

3. Prioritise and streamline: cut the excess

Prioritise tasks to be completed before you finish and streamline your workload to avoid a last-minute scramble. Focus on high-impact activities and delegate or defer non-critical tasks. By cutting the excess tasks, you reduce the strain on yourself, ensuring that you can walk away from work knowing that everything essential is under control.

4. Create a transition plan: hand over the rope

A transition plan is your key to letting go. Share this plan with your team and stakeholders, ensuring everyone is on the same page. This plan acts as a guide, helping your team navigate any uncertainties in your absence and allowing you to switch off.

5. Mindful use of technology: limit the grip

While technology can keep you connected, limit your grip on it during your holiday. Unplug entirely if possible. If your work phone is also your personal phone, delete the work apps. If you need to check on emails, allocate and communicate a time you will do so. Trust your team to handle issues and enjoy disconnecting.

6. Practice self-care: reclaim your time

Your holiday is a time to recharge your mind and body. Engage in activities that promote relaxation for you, whether it is reading a book by a pool, hiking a mountain or exploring a new city. Remember, this is a necessity for sustained performance and productivity.

7. Reflect and reset: rebalance the scale

Use your holiday as an opportunity to reflect on your accomplishments and set new goals. A change of environment can provide fresh perspectives and inspire innovative ideas. Take this time to reassess your strategies and approaches, ensuring you return with renewed energy and clarity.

The benefits of dropping the rope

Dropping the rope and stepping away from work has benefits for project and change managers. It reduces stress, enhances creativity, and improves problem-solving abilities. A refreshed mind can tackle challenges more effectively and maintain a positive outlook. Moreover, disconnecting from work allows you to reconnect with yourself and your loved ones, fostering a better work-life balance.

By preparing adequately, setting boundaries, and prioritising self-care, you can truly drop the rope, enjoy your summer holidays, and return to work rejuvenated and ready to lead your teams to success. Your projects, team, your family and most importantly, you, will benefit immensely.

What are you going to try? Let me know, and lets share more tips to help your fellow project managers.

If you struggling with this, and want to discuss it privately with an expert project manager coach, then book a free call.