As most of you are probably aware, this weekend is a bank holiday and will be the last one until Christmas! As a contractor, the ability to have more flexibility in your working life means that you’ll be free to take time off to relax or spend time with your family.
However, even if they’re not working on the bank holiday, some professionals struggle to detach themselves from the day job and end up spending more time glued to their phones than enjoying the day.
Here are three tips to help you switch off from your assignment:
Organise yourself this week
Getting yourself in a fluster on Friday to get tasks done is not the ideal way to start your relaxing weekend. You should organise your schedule now and sort your work in order of priority.
Anything deemed to be of high importance should be your focus this week, while those less of a priority could either be started once the most pressing tasks are taken care of, or even pushed back until Tuesday.
Inform your client
If you’re taking the bank holiday off it’s vital you inform your client, as some people will still be working. State when you won’t be reachable and provide them with a number they can contact you on in case of emergencies.
We also suggest setting an “out of office” response on your emails so people know your reply may be delayed. You can also supply alternate contact information if there is an immediate issue.
Disconnect
If you want to truly appreciate the long weekend, try not to check your work emails and phone. If you need to keep up some form of contact, set yourself a specific time in the day where you can keep up-to-date with the process of your project and make sure you stick to it.
Disconnecting for the extended weekend will give you a well deserved break and you may even return to your project with fresh perspective.
Have your say
Are you a contractor? How do you switch off on a bank holiday weekend? Join in the discussion on Twitter, or leave a comment below.
