Think Outside The Office And Make Exploration Your Business

This message is for those who rarely take vacations. It doesn't matter why but it certainly does make a difference in your productivity and creativity long-term. You will not receive a badge of honor for never getting away. You will get burned out and become more isolated. However, when you take the time and make the effort to prioritize time off, make sure some of that time is spent in a location other than where you live, and if possible, somewhere you have never been before. Exploring new destinations will help with:

• Cultivating fresh perspectives and ideas

• Expanding networks and collaborative opportunities

• Renewing energy and personal growth

CULTIVATING FRESH PERSPECTIVES AND IDEAS

It's extremely difficult to develop fresh, new ideas on a consistent basis without some novelty and change. Changing your scenery helps you to accomplish this in a very impactful way and it doesn't necessarily have to involve getting on an airplane. As a business owner, it's much easier to make the decision to work from anywhere (if that's possible in your industry). So, if you can do that, please do. An initial baby step could mean working from a coffees shop, co-working space or even taking a trip to do the same in the next town or state over. The goal would be to ensure that you evolve past working from anywhere to unplugging from work and taking time off. The time itself allows you to free your mind from constantly thinking about work (with practice). The other benefit is that having this experience in a new environment presents you with opportunities to encounter diversity, challenge your assumptions and be inspired.

EXPANDING NETWORKS AND COLLABORATIVE OPPORTUNITIES

You never know who you will meet. Though this applies when you are working and in your hometown, it's even more accurate when you venture outside of those boundaries. As you greatly increase the probability that you will encounter strangers when you travel, you are able to discover more of the unexpected. This can be in the form of attending conferences and retreats where you will meet others in your industry with similar goals. But even during transit on the way you can connect you with a host of other people that may also become a part of your network. Capitalize on this opportunity for expansion by engaging those that you meet. Your willingness to open up and chat with your neighbor on a flight could open up new markets for your business, develop into a mentor or mastermind relationship or be the connection to someone pivotal in your journey at some point in the future. Even though you are not supposed to be working, it is a good idea to be prepared to provide those you meet with your contact information to extend the connection past the point of connection.

RENEWing ENERGY AND PERSONAL GROWTH

It's called work/life balance for a reason. Everything you do should not solely benefit you professionally while your personal life suffers. Whether you are single, partnered or parenting, your life influences other people in how you show up. If you are not giving yourself permission to relax and enjoy your life without working (at least sometimes), the best version of you is not what anyone will get. Part of changing location helps you to derive energy through both rest and stimulation of your senses. It can come from great food, amazing architecture, friendly locals, beautiful landscapes...there are so many possibilities. What's most important though, is that you unplug enough from your day-to-day and stay present. Your conscious presence enhances and captures the experiences so that you can take it all in but also take it with you. A picturesque sunset may inspire you to remodel your backyard. Witnessing the lifestyles of the natives where you visited may move you to change the culture and traditions of your own family. The exquisite cuisine may influence you to change your diet. The point is simply that if you allow yourself to bring back part of your exploration, it can help you to grow.

If you are struggling with work/life balance and need help navigating exactly how to find harmony between the two, Intentional Professionals can provide accountability coaching to keep you on track. Schedule a Strategic Consultation today to discuss the possibilities that can change the trajectory of your business and your life.

Sincerely,

-M