Working in the accommodation industry, especially in holiday parks, means that you live and breathe your work. For most managers, the reality of becoming consumed with work is an ever-present concern, especially when you’re on call at odd hours, or even living on site with your guests. It can make it difficult to step away and take a much-needed break – even for just 30 minutes a day.
One of my recent guests on the That Bad Review podcast, Belinda Thomas, knows all too well what it’s like to be working when you’re already past the point of burnout. She shared with me how, several years ago, her husband recognised that she had pushed herself past her own capacity and needed to take a break. He gave her an ultimatum – come with him on a 12-month break around Australia, or stay and get sucked into burnout. Belinda recognised that her partner could see something that she couldn’t, and made the decision to look after herself.
While it may not always be easy to uproot yourself and head away from work for a whole year, there are other ways you can help to avoid burnout and keep your mind in a healthy and positive place.
Do Something You Love
The best way that you can ensure you recharge your batteries every day is by taking some time out and doing something you love that’s non-work-related. Go for a run, watch some TV or read a book. Anything that allows you to de-stress, unwind and not think about work will give your mind a break and help you face the next day of work.
Take Your Blinders Off
One of the problems that holiday park owners face is that they rarely take the time to enjoy the location that their park is in. By stopping every so often and enjoying your surroundings, you will be able to give yourself a mental break from seeing everything around you as ‘work’. You can do this by taking a walk once a week around the area, possibly some local parklands, or maybe head out and take a swim at the beach that’s close to your location.
Always Take Holidays
One of the ways you can avoid burnout is by making sure that you take time off each year and go on a break away from your business. This is one area that many business owners and managers fail to maximise on, and it’s important to provide a mental break and recharge every year. I always make sure that I have time blocked out in my calendar at regular intervals, so I know exactly when it is I need to take some time off, which also gives me something to look forward to throughout the year.
Working yourself into the ground will never lead to a successfully run business, it will only put you in a state where you will drop the ball and make poor decisions. When you take the time to focus on your mental wellbeing, you will ensure that you’re ready and able to take on board any challenges that are thrown your way.
Listen to our entire conversation here!