The holidays are right around the corner and, if you haven't done so already, you should sit down with a calendar and plan your days off! Yes, you get days off! No, they aren't PAID days off but value them anyway. Even if you are a big believer in hard work, reward yourself with a bit of time off this season. It doesn't have to be a couple of weeks (doesn't that sound nice?): If you take even a few days, you will return to your desk or computer refreshed and ready to do battle in the new year.
The sad truth is that many telecommuters and freelancers don't take even one day off a week. Yet, according to internet research, productivity actually increases when entrepreneurs take at least that one day off. You want better productivity? Right? And, I bet, you could use more free time, too.
The trick is to identify ways to get all the work done in six days or (dare I dream?) in five! This is basic "work smarter, not harder" territory.
But, back to the holidays, PLAN NOW to take time off and be brutal in scheduling your work to make it happen. If necessary, send a polite email to your clients announcing you'll be "out of the office." Put a red circle on your calendar around your first day off and keep it where you can see it. Work as hard and long as necessary to be able to stand up and step away from your workspace. Then, don't look back. Rediscover the fun things you can do with friends and relatives without a computer. Take in the sights and sounds of the season. Breathe deep and wish for snow.
You'll thank me come January 2nd.
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