I recently flew the distance to Paris, France for a seven night stay in the city of love. Today I am choosing to share a few professional takeaways I learned and will take forward with me as I move back into my routines.

1. Step away from the screen for lunch and connect, face to face, with a colleague or customer.

I am guilty of grabbing lunch and barely enjoying it between working on my laptop and catching up on personal events on my mobile. I loved how in Paris many storefronts would place notes on the door that they would return in two hours, as they were enjoying an extended lunch break.

2. Walk! Even five minutes in fresh air can be stimulating.

I did a ton of walking in Paris. In fact, some days I clocked in over 20 kilometers on foot. Sure I had a few blisters, but it was a tremendous way to see the city and experience the culture. Plus, it helped ease off some of the delicious baked goods and replaced my usual gym routine. Getting back home, I am finding that I am appreciating my short walk to work even more and have vowed to take a few minutes every day to enjoy the fresh air.

3. Completely let go. I removed my work email from my mobile so I could completely immerse myself into my vacation.

It’s not mandatory for me, but I choose to sync my personal cell with my work account to ensure that I never miss a beat. On Friday, as I departed the office pre-travel, I made the decision to disconnect my work account from my phone and I couldn’t be happier that I did. I was able to get into vacation mode almost instantaneously and it was a simple process to reconnect my work account upon my return home.

There you have it. Go, take the drive, flight, train or boat ride. Experience what the world has to offer. Life and work will go on and I promise you’ll reintegrate upon your return.

About the Author: Deana Srdic

Deana Srdic is the Marketing Manager for Wolfgang Commercial Painters. Deana plans and implements Wolfgang’s annual marketing strategy, manages the website, facilitates the Wolfpack’s digital strategy and plans client events. Deana graduated from Camosun College with a degree in Marketing Communications Management and Leadership, an additional general Business diploma and Management certificate. Deana spends her free time working on her personal blog, lifting weights and actively participating in personal growth coaching. She’s a city girl with a passion for consistency.

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