High Performance Habits Series: The Secret to Restorative Vacations

By: Alisse Houweling

Whether it’s summer down time, March break, or any other time of year, vacations serve a great purpose in helping us relax and recharge our batteries. But, even when we realize how important vacation time is, many of us struggle to plan and take a truly restorative vacation. What does that mean for those of us in demanding, high-performance roles? Unfortunately, all too often it means that we wrap up a vacation and feel like we need another one, just to recover. 

I’ve been there, and I’ve learned that, unless it’s restorative, it’s not really a vacation. 

The Evolution of My Vacation Planning

Over the years, my vacations have varied in restorative quality. When I was younger, a less restorative vacation did not seem to matter as much. But, as I’ve aged, and as my  responsibilities and commitments have increased, the need for truly restorative vacations has become more critical. Limited time for ‘make-up rest’ means a poorly planned vacation can lead to long-term fatigue.

Strategic Vacation Planning for Optimal Rest

Knowing this has  helped  me become very thoughtful and even strategic when planning my vacations. To increase the level of rest I feel after my vacations, I now consciously reflect at the end of each trip. I assess what worked well and what could be improved. This practice has led to more effective and restorative vacations over time.

Relaxing by the lake.

A Memorable Restorative Vacation Experience

From the perspective of rest, this practice led to a particularly memorable vacation this summer. Before I left, I was tired and felt my brain was ‘spinning’ far too quickly. My problem solving was weaker than usual and creative ideas were lacking. Yet, within days I palpably felt my brain stop ‘spinning’. Then, a few days later, I started to experience the emergence of unsolicited new ideas and connections. It was a very interesting cerebral experience which made me better understand the value of rest. 

What Made My Vacation Restorative?

My family and I drove to Nova Scotia. We made a series of stops along the way at pre-arranged locations (Quebec City, St. John and New Glasgow) and ended up at a family cottage by the lake. While those stops definitely helped me create a mental break from all things at work and home, I suspect that it was the time by the lake that was most impactful for me. That is when the new ideas started surfacing. Under the trees. By the lake. Quiet. Still. No connection with work.

What are my takeaways from this summer’s vacation? 

A little road trip with pre-planned lodging followed by quiet time by the lake works wonders for my restoration. For future trips, I'll ensure to bring goggles, a bathing cap, and a buoy for more physical activity during lake time.

Research Insights on Restorative Vacations

Curious to learn whether my personal insights are supported by research, I did some digging and learned they are. Planning a trip ahead of time does minimize vacation-related stressors, and spending time in nature and unplugging from the office are recognized ways to promote greater rest. No surprise, really. 

For me, the real surprise was just how impactful the experience was. The profound, positive effect  of these practices on my well-being was surprising, and validated all of the effort I’d put into planning and setting  boundaries.

Enjoy your vacations, everyone. Plan, set boundaries, relax, and you’ll return to work truly realizing the benefit of down time.