Sometimes, it may also be helpful to relinquish control over certain things. For instance, once you’ve completed a project or submitted an assignment to your supervisor, it is in their hands.
3. Diversify your time
While it may seem counterintuitive, it can be helpful to take breaks from our work responsibilities, even when things feel hectic. In fact, stepping away and reallocating our time can help us feel better, stay motivated and find purpose in our lives and jobs.
Living life outside of work: You may choose to dedicate more time to other areas of your life outside of work, like friends, family, hobbies or leisure. Finding meaning in your time away from the office can help reduce stress, enhance your sense of fulfilment and bring joy to your life.
Pausing between projects: Stress can be a positive feedback loop, especially when we find ourselves jumping from project to project. Instead, it may be more helpful to allow yourself to take a break and reset between projects. After you’ve finished one, step away and take a deep breath before moving onto the next thing. This may look like going for a walk, grabbing coffee with a colleague or spending time completing lower-stress tasks.
4. Slow down and get away
Taking time off is important for our mental and physical well-being. However, the shift from ‘go mode’ to ‘relaxation mode’ can feel challenging for many people. Preparing to leave in advance can help.
Here are some tips you can use.
Enlist backup. If you’re taking time off, let your supervisor and team know in advance. Try to determine who can answer questions or take over urgent needs that might come up while you’re away. You can also schedule time to meet so you can update them on issues or projects that may need their attention. Be sure to remind them at least a week in advance before you take off.
Create automatic replies. Set up an out-of-office email notification before you leave. This lets people know who to contact in your absence and when you plan to return to work. You can also include information about when people can expect a response. For instance, you may say something like, “I will get back to you within five business days of my return.” Just be sure to turn off or schedule an end date for automatic replies when you get back to the office.
Shutdown. If possible, turn off your work notifications and remove work-related apps from your homescreen. It can also be helpful to leave your laptop at the office if you often get the urge to check emails. This can help you practice being more present while you’re away and spend quality time with loved ones without work distractions.
Ease into it. Resist the urge to immediately fill your time with productive tasks or planning. Instead, allow yourself time to decompress, reset and rest for a day or two. It’s also important to notice and accept feelings of restlessness or anxiety that may come up. This is normal, and chances are they will pass as you ease your way into your time off.
5. Reflect and look forward
The end of the semester or year is a great time to reflect on our accomplishments and look forward to the future.
Looking back
Think back on your accomplishments this past semester or year. Consider things you’ve overcome that you’re proud of. This could include things like saving for retirement, getting a promotion or positive performance evaluation, teaching a new class or finding a mentor. Remember that it doesn’t have to be big. Small successes deserve to be acknowledged, too.
Looking forward
Now that you’ve looked at (and celebrated) all the things you’ve accomplished in the past, think about what you’d like to accomplish moving forward over the next month, semester or year. Perhaps you’d like to change your courses, take on new projects, start volunteering or create a savings plan. Take some time to think through steps you can take to get there and reach out for support if needed.
Want to make it fun?
Creating a yearly bucket list can be a fun way to plan for the future and ensure that you’re taking time to do the things you enjoy or are excited about. Make a list of things you’d like to do over the next 12 months. This could be specific things like going to a sporting event, baking your first cheesecake, hiking a new trail, visiting a new state or picking up a new hobby. As you write down your list, consider when you can find time to do each item. You can also enlist family or friends to do them with you.
Support resources
If you want additional support, there are campus resources available for all staff and faculty.
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FSAP provides a variety of free mental health services for CU Boulder staff and faculty, including workshops, support groups, same-day appointments, short-term counseling (including family and couples counseling) and more. Staff and faculty can take advantage of FSAP services without taking sick leave or paid time off. |
WorkWell helps oversee a variety of health and wellness programs that are aimed at supporting staff and faculty and fostering a sense of belonging on campus. You can get involved by attending classes, events and more. |
This mobile app is designed to help CU staff and faculty through:
Participants can accumulate Wellable points through the app to unlock rewards and prizes. |
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If you are looking to connect with a local provider in your area, Thriving Campus can help you connect with a variety of providers based on specialization, needs and insurance. |
If you’re not able to take all of your excess vacation time, CU Boulder offers the Leave Sharing Program, where employees can donate days they would otherwise lose due to maximum accrual limits. Donate your excess vacation time before it expires in June. You can also donate vacation leave days to the program anytime during the year. |
AcademicLiveCare provides access to free online counseling and psychiatry appointments. Staff and faculty can access services for free, regardless of their health insurance plan or coverage. |
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