How to Avoid Pre-Vacation Work Stress

We've all gone through it; the week before we're on vacation from work our workload doubles. We struggle, get frustrated and then, the final day before vacation there is nothing but chaos! I'm guessing this is why most people don't take vacations.

There are some tricks to keep the chaos at a minimum so you can relax and enjoy your time off. Let's break down how to tackle the week.

There are some supplies you'll need:

1. Notepad

2. Pen

3. Alarm clock.

4. Calendar

Now here's your game plan. Using your calendar and notepad, map out ever hour of every workday leading up to vacation. Write down your normal duties and what time they are done, leave time to put out fires and add new tasks, and delegate duties when possible. Stick to it and add in tasks as they come in.

Send an email to co-workers and colleagues informing them that you will be leaving work promptly at (fill in the time and day) and will be unavailable the following week due to vacation. Stress that you will not be in communication with work while gone!

I bet you're wondering what the alarm clock is for. If you set it in intervals, depending on work flow, you will keep yourself on task and aware of wasted time.

I know you are thinking that your stress is not being reduced by this plan, but it will when you cross off each task when you are done with them. Trust me! The last thing to do is regroup at the end of each day and set up for tomorrow.

If you don't have a huge pile of work waiting to be taken care of on the day before vacation starts, you will feel better about vacation.

Enjoy your time off!