The holiday season is upon us and work is wrapping up for the year ready for some R&R. Sometimes it's easier said than done to switch off and enjoy some well needed relaxation and rest. Below are 3 simple things you should do to ensure you make the most of your time off…

Tie Up Loose Ends

In order to properly disconnect from work and have a stress free break, tidy up any loose ends at work. Clear out your inbox, write a to-do list for the new year or action plan for any projects you aren’t able to finalise this side of the new year, clean and organise your space including physical and digital files (you’ll thank yourself on your first day back).  Don’t look at your to-do list again until the night before you head back to work. By doing this you’ll not only have a stress free break but you’ll have already prepped yourself for a strong start to the new year.

Switch Off 

Turn your out of office on and your email notifications off. Take it one step further and turn off social media notifications too to allow yourself to be present in the moment. If you do need to use any devices - make sure you set realistic, clear expectations at the start of your break about how often you need to be checking your work emails etc and commit to that allocated time frame - no longer. Everyone is different - just make sure you switch off where you can and enjoy the time with your family & friends.  

Make The Most of your Break

It’s always fun to write a little holiday bucket list, whether it's big or small.  From travelling & exploring, to baking at home, having a beach day, Facetime dates or visiting friends and family, or reading a book on your list.  Whatever a break means to you, allow yourself the luxury of doing all the little things you may not usually have the time to do.

But over all, just make sure you switch off & relax - you all deserve it! Beck & team AOL x