I left in summer and returned in autumn!

Six weeks off flew by, If you missed it, I always take the summer off to spend with my son and family. I work on setting boundaries to protect this time. My reason for this is simply living my life according to my values and what is important to me.

Running my business puts me in control and gives me that flexibility to take time off. By setting boundaries, social media messages and putting out of office on, I let everyone know I am away on my annual summer sabbatical and when I will return.

My time was filled with days out, beach trips and some home renovations, including a new office set up! But some work snuck in there too. My phone rang a couple of times, unknown numbers that I picked up, and subsequently, was presented with a few wonderful opportunities to make an impact and get to know other like-minded professionals in the process. So, I guess you could say a little bit of work snuck in towards the end, but when the opportunity is a great fit, it’s a reminder that being flexible is okay. People often talk about boundaries as something rigid, and for many, some of their boundaries are. For me however, there is a time and a place where I can and will be flexible on my working boundaries when needed.

Also, as always, time out gives me time to think, time to be creative, have ideas and clarity on the future of the business. New systems and processes will be coming in to streamline the operational side of the business, I’m looking to work smarter, not harder.

For myself, as Yvette Ankrah the transformational coach working with individuals, and for Leading with Clarity, my business of affecting change and development via leadership in the workplace, I have some really great things coming up that I’m looking forward to sharing in the coming months.

Autumn looks busy, but I’ve already planned in my monthly self-care days, where I can take myself out, switch off and spend the day to myself. For me, these days are non-negotiable. They help in avoiding burnout, fuelling creativity and of course, the simplicity of just looking after myself.

If you’re heading back to work after some time out this summer then read this post on burnout to ensure you are looking after yourself as a priority.