Education
& InformationManaging the Stress of Leaving for Vacation
- Do you ever feel so hassled about leaving for vacation that you can’t
remember if you locked the door, packed your toothbrush, or returned your
boss’s report? With a bit of planning and a checklist, you can be
sure that you took care of the details.
- Meet with co-workers to discuss any projects or responsibilities that will need attention while you are away.
- Anticipate the last minute rush by scheduling extra time to tie up loose ends.
- Catch up on your phone calls or mail so people won’t have to wait longer to hear from you.
- Prepare a list of tasks that you will address when you return.
- Leave your work area neat. It sends a nice message to people passing by and is more inviting when you return.
- Ask a reliable neighbor or the police department to check your home, and let them know where you can be reached.
- If you have a neighborhood “watch” group, alert them to the dates of your vacation.
- Have mail and newspapers stopped. Since arrangements can’t always be made at the last minute, allow at least a week. If you forget, get a neighbor to collect these daily.
- Leave all doors and windows locked.
- Leave lights on around the house to make it look occupied. If you will be gone an extended time, ask someone to spend time in your house so it will look more “lived in” while you are away, or use automatic light timers.
- Arrange for the care of your pets and plants.
- Realistically set the heating and cooling system to conserve energy. For extended trips, turn water heater down.
- Clean. A neat house makes coming home easier. If you’re rushed, do the bare minimum, wash dishes and take out the garbage.
Leaving the Workplace Behind
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