The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3 - 53

LIFESTYLE
Find Work-Life Balance with a Daycation
Anonymous: I love my job, but lately I've been feeling
overwhelmed. Every time a new meeting is added to my
calendar or something new is added to my to do list, I feel the
stress climbing. How can I stop feeling so stressed at work?
Suggestions: It might be time to hit the pause button
and treat yourself to a much-needed break. You don't need
to immediately book a tropical vacation, but it would
be beneficial to investigate whether you're able to take a
daycation-a day solely dedicated to self-care, relaxation and
rejuvenation. Of course, not everyone can take a daycation at
a moment's notice. Likely, you'll need to time it to give your
work adequate notice. But that doesn't diminish what a day
dedicated to you can do.
Imagine waking up without the urgency of an alarm clock,
or without the pressure of deadlines or the familiar commute
to the office. A daycation-also referred to as a mental health
day-offers a much-needed escape from the daily routine,
allowing you to step away from the demands of work for a
brief period. Just one day for yourself can help reduce stress
levels and work anxiety. Toronto-based clinical psychologist,
Dr. Natasha Williams agrees.
" Daycations can offer rejuvenation for people who may
feel stuck in a mundane routine or experience the increased
frustration and irritation of being in the same surroundings
and experiencing constant stress and strain, " Williams says.
Taking a daycation allows you to step away from stress
triggers, providing a much-needed respite for your mind and
body. You can do exactly what you want to do, whether that's
treating yourself to a massage or watching movies in your
pyjamas. This mini break can help reduce stress levels, restore
balance and promote a sense of calm and tranquility. The key
to getting these benefits though is enjoying the day off.
" There has to be a certain mindset that an individual must
embrace to enjoy the benefits of a daycation, " Williams
cautions. " An individual who has difficulty with boundaries or
the ability to separate work and leisure wouldn't benefit from
a daycation. Especially if they use a daycation or change of
scenery to transfer their work stress from one environment to
another. "
Our bodies and minds aren't designed to operate at
full throttle indefinitely. Just as our smartphones need to
be recharged regularly, so do we. Daycations provide the
opportunity to recharge your batteries and replenish your
energy levels. Whether you spend the day exploring nature,
indulging in a spa day or simply lounging in bed with a good
book, this dedicated time to recharge will leave you feeling
refreshed, revitalized and ready to take on new challenges.
Start by choosing a day that works best for you-a day when
you can fully disconnect from work and focus on rejuvenating
yourself. Consider activities that bring you joy and relaxation,
whether it's exploring the city, immersing yourself in a creative
hobby or spending quality time with loved ones. Prioritize
activities that help you disconnect from work-related stress
and reconnect with yourself.
By taking dedicated time for self-care and rejuvenation,
you'll tap into a deeper sense of balance, clarity and
motivation.
Talk to your manager about taking a mental health day,
plan your daycation and power up for a happier, healthier and
more productive you. Your mind, body and work-life balance
will thank you.
Volume 23 | Issue 3
53
The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3
