01 Aug 2022
It’s that time of year when exams officers traditionally enjoy a summer break – however short. After the challenge of summer exams, time out is an essential part of the rest and refresh process.
As a workaholic, I love what I do. I find it hard to totally switch off, but I recognise how important it is.
We know when we are fatigued. We recognise the signs of stress (usually) and with pandemic journeys lifted, how good it is for some of us to enjoy time away from the stresses that occupy our working days.
If we needed any confirmation – psychologists and work-life balance experts all agree:
- 'Doing different' recharges us
- Spending time with those we love feeds our soul
- When we separate from the churn of responsibility, we find we can do more
Research has shown that when we take ourselves away from the usual 9-5 and rest, we actually come back more responsive and energised. Studies have been done on the benefits of working less and yet doing more. It seems a paradox but there’s proof that regular rest is good for us.
We all know we should be getting 8-hour nights in, but the 2 week July/August getaway is a tradition many of build into our summer – and we feel cheated when we are not able to do that!
You may be enjoying the benefits of such time away from it all, but really, we should not leave it to a 1 or 2 week break in the summer sun to allow ourselves some rest and recreation.
I have often heard this period called “refilling our creative well”.
We need activities and events that help us reconnect with others and make us feel valued again. It is not just our bodies that need the rest, it is our mind and spirit too.
So just for a moment, consider how you could take a short R and R break during your usual working week.
I did an exercise some time back where we were encouraged to map out things that would refresh our love of life again.
- What would make you feel pampered, spoiled?
- What would sing to your passions?
- What could you do that would make you feel good about yourself?
It is worth thinking what you could add into your life, as a timely treat, an indulgence, or a bit of spoiling.
For many of us that could just be time to ourselves – especially when family is demanding.
Could it be a walk, a visit to a favourite café, a spot of shopping, a luxurious bath, a concert, or the latest tome from a favourite author?
I used to plan in museum trips, lunch with friends at a special restaurant, connecting to distant people using special notecards and buying lovely candles to enjoy at bedtime (amongst other things).
This year I am not having a holiday away – but I am spending time with family and friends and catching up on some chat and conversation over a glass of pink fizz or two.
I know whenever I do that, I come back feeling loved and appreciated, and my heart is full.
I hope wherever and however you spend your summer break; you enjoy the same.
Know that though I do not know you, I know what you do all year. And whilst others may not say it, I value you, your work, your energy, your commitment, and your special skills.
May you have a rejuvenating break and come back refreshed, ready for the new academic year.
Love and Light,
Geraldine
You can read my article on Taking Time Out from my blog. You can sign up to my blog here
In the next few months I will be launching Developing The Exam Mindset – an online programme for Schools to help their young people handle exam anxieties. If you would like to join the waiting list, you can sign up at https://www.geraldinejozefiak.com/exammindsetbeta2022
Download your quote card – let the day wash over you.