Nowadays, there’s no doubt that working from home has become a reality for many of us. But what if you traded your living room for an apartment with a view of the beach, the mountains, or a quaint town in Tuscany? Workation is the new trend that combines work and vacation. And yes, it’s just as amazing as it sounds!
Last year, I had the opportunity to try workation in several places. Imagine finishing the final tweaks on your project release and then heading out for a breathtaking hike in Madeira. The sun, fresh air, and views of the mountains and ocean recharge you. After a day spent on your computer, you become a tourist and enjoy the beauty of the island of eternal spring. Or how about Naples? Who could resist a fresh Margherita pizza after a full day of work?
Is Workation Just Another Form of Remote Work?
Yes and no.
One common issue with remote work is that some employees struggle to completely switch off. This can lead to stress, work-life imbalance, and sometimes even burnout. Check out the blog on how not to lose your mind while working from home.
While working from home frees you from the four walls of the office, workation takes your freedom to a whole new level. You work in an environment that energizes you, and your day takes on a completely different rhythm compared to working from home. It’s an ideal choice for those who don’t want or can’t fully disconnect from work, even during a vacation.
Benefits of Workation
New Inspiration: Working in a new environment can bring fresh perspectives to your tasks. New surroundings and experiences stimulate the brain, leading to innovative ideas. Imagine how a sunrise over the sea could give you the energy to tackle a challenging problem you would otherwise procrastinate on.
Flexibility: With a workation, you can structure your day to best suit your productivity peaks and personal preferences. In the morning, you can enjoy a cup of coffee with a view of the ocean, and in the afternoon, dive into your work. This way, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Better Work-Life Balance: By combining vacation with work, you can truly relax and unwind. After a demanding day, you can take a stroll along the beach or taste the local specialties. This leads to higher productivity and satisfaction.
Networking and New Opportunities: Traveling opens doors to new connections. You might meet other professionals in your field and share work experiences with them. Attending local events or using a local coworking space could be a great opportunity to form new collaborations.
Personal Growth: A new environment teaches you independence and the ability to adapt to new situations. You gain experiences that enrich you and help you grow not only as a professional but also as a person. Plus, working abroad is a great chance to improve your language skills.
Workation is an excellent way to blend work with fun and enjoy new experiences. But before you pack your suitcase (and charger), here are a few details to keep in mind:
- Reliable Wi-Fi is non-negotiable! Check in advance what connection options are available where you’re headed. Fast and stable internet is essential! Before you go, you can read reviews on cafes or coworking spaces.
- Don’t forget the “life” part when seeking work/life balance. Set clear boundaries between work and rest. Don’t get sucked into “just one more email” while watching the sunset.
- Watch the clock! If you have a remote team, consider the time zones. Coordinate meetings to suit everyone. Sometimes setting up a shared calendar is all it takes to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
Workation is a modern way to invest in employee well-being, creativity, and overall job satisfaction. And in today’s competitive environment, that can be the deciding factor. So what are you waiting for? Pack your laptop, grab your good mood, and embark on a new adventurous journey!
Pavol Pavuk
The author of the article is a project manager passionate about agile methodologies. Pali oversees projects and pre-sales activities mainly in e-commerce and CX, ensuring two-way communication, mutual satisfaction, and the quality of deliverables.
