Team members guide to taking time off well (and coming back well!)

You may have heard of the “vacation tax,” right? It’s that feeling you might get before or after a vacation that makes you wonder if it was really worth it! Time away from work should be restorative – and time off works best when it’s truly time off. This guide helps you step away confidently, support your customers, and return without stress or apology.

1. Rethink “urgent.”

Not everything is urgent—even if it feels that way.

Use “urgent” only when the situation calls for it:
- Blocks critical work
- Poses significant risk
- Cannot reasonably wait
When everything is urgent, focus and quality suffer.

✅ It’s okay to pause, clarify, and re-prioritize.

2. Be where you are.

Whether you’re working or away—be fully “where you are.”

Checking messages while off prevents real recovery.
Focus after time off is more effective than partial attention during time off.
Rest supports better decisions, creativity and collaboration.

✅ Being present is part of doing great work.

3. Give yourself permission to unplug.

Time off doesn’t require justification.

Set your out-of-office message and trust it.
Avoid “just checking in.”
Your behavior signals what’s acceptable for others.

✅ Unplugging helps reset both energy and perspective.

4. Don’t apologize when you return.

Being out is expected—not an inconvenience.

Avoid:
- “Sorry for the delay…”
Try instead:
- “Thanks for your patience.”
- “I’m back and responding now.”

✅ Language shapes culture—normalize time off.

5. Prepare for time off

a. Block time when you return

Block at least a half day on your first day back.
Use it to review emails, re-prioritize, and reconnect.

b. Identify a backup (when possible)

Align on what truly needs coverage vs. what can wait.
Clear handoffs reduce interruptions and stress.

c. Communicate clearly

Let customers know:
- When you’ll be out
- When you’ll return
- Who to contact (if needed)

✅ Clear, confident communication builds trust.

6. Support customers while you’re off

Encourage emails that can wait.
Offer alternate contact only for time-sensitive needs.

Example OOO language:

“I’ll be out of the office until [date]. I’ll respond when I return.
If something is time-sensitive, please contact name/alias].”

Final thought

Time off is essential—not exceptional. When we prepare well and respect boundaries, everyone benefits!