mini beach chair in sandbox on desk

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, many employees are looking forward to taking a break from work and enjoying a long weekend. Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. It is observed on the last Monday in May, and it is a time for Americans to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served their country.

For many workers, Memorial Day weekend offers an opportunity to take a well-deserved break from work and spend time with friends and family. However, with the rise of hybrid work, where employees may work remotely or in the office, the concept of a three-day weekend has changed.

Many companies allowing employees to work from home on Fridays or Mondays, which can turn a traditional weekend into a three-day one. This has provided employees with more flexibility in how they use their time off and helped them maintain a better work-life balance. However, it has also blurred the line between work and personal time, as employees may be more inclined to check their work email or take a quick phone call during their time off.

This Memorial Day, we must remember the holiday's significance and what it represents to the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.  But it's still okay to take time to disconnect from work and find ways to relax, spend time with loved ones, practice self-care, or simply take a break from technology.

When it comes to remote work best practices, it's essential to establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. For example: 

  1. Set specific work hours and avoid checking work email or taking work-related calls outside of those hours. 
  2. One should also take regular breaks throughout the day and make time for physical activity, such as going for a walk or practicing yoga. Additionally, make time for activities you enjoy, such as reading or listening to music.
  3. Taking time off can help maintain one's mental health and avoid burnout, so it's important to take advantage of PTO (paid time off) when available. PTO can be used for vacations, personal days, or a mental health day to recharge. 
  4. When planning time off, try to disconnect completely from work and avoid checking email or taking work-related calls. This will allow you to relax and recharge, ultimately making you a more productive and engaged employee.

In addition to taking advantage of PTO, many companies offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that can provide employees with travel perks. These perks can include discounts on hotels, rental cars, and flights, as well as travel insurance and emergency assistance services. Utilizing these perks can help make travel more affordable and less stressful, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable and rejuvenating experience. So, the next time you're planning a trip, be sure to check with your company's EAP to see what travel perks are available to you.

As we enjoy the long weekend, let's remember Memorial Day's true meaning and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served our country. Let's also recognize the importance of taking time off to recharge and disconnect from work, which is crucial for our overall well-being.

Sources:

  • "Memorial Day 2022: History, meaning and significance of the holiday," ABC News, May 29, 2022.
  • "How to take time off work without getting behind," Harvard Business Review, May 27, 2022