I had a much-needed break in Thailand last month. Running my own business means I’ve always found it hard to unplug. On previous trips I’ve often fitted in short remote interpreting assignments or quick translation jobs.
This time I was determined things would be different, so while I did check my emails daily for anything urgent, I didn’t take on any work while I was away, and I delegated routine admin to my VA.
It was a glorious escape from everyday life. Some days we lazed around, enjoying long lunches and swimming in the infinity pool outside our room. Other days we went exploring, including a trip to Koh Khao Phing Kan, also known as ‘James Bond Island’, where The Man With The Golden Gun was filmed.
Weeks later I still feel refreshed from this truly nurturing experience.
The exotic location helped me unplug, as did the time difference, which meant I wasn’t available during European working hours. But it also took intention.
I’ve written before about my struggle to find work-life balance. I adore my work, but life as an interpreter can be unpredictable and demanding.
In the past, I’ve made pacts with myself to take more breaks and switch off my computer after a certain hour, only to slip back into bad habits.
I’m realising that – just like synchronised swimming or interpreting – achieving work-life balance requires deliberate practice: identifying my weak spots, trying new strategies and constantly looking for opportunities to improve.