Why Stepping Away from Work is the Key to Moving Forward

In today’s fast-paced world, it can feel like stepping away from work is a luxury you can’t afford. But what if I told you that stepping away isn’t just a break? It’s a strategic move that can transform your career and well-being.

The Christmas break is often a chance for many of us to step away from work, and as many offices are quieter over the festive period, you hopefully won’t have quite such a full inbox when you return.

Here’s why taking time out is not just important—it’s essential.

1. Clarity Comes with Distance

When you’re immersed in your daily tasks, it’s easy to lose sight of your long-term goals. Stepping away creates space for reflection. It’s often in those quiet moments—during a walk, while enjoying a morning coffee, or even on holiday—that the most valuable insights emerge. You might find clarity about your next career move or a fresh way of approaching a work challenge.

2. Avoiding Burnout

Constantly working (often that can be both at work and at home), can take a toll on your energy and enthusiasm. Without proper rest, productivity declines, and stress levels soar. Taking regular breaks helps to protect your mental health and that will help you sustain your career momentum. Remember: Rest isn’t a reward for hard work; it’s a necessity.

3. Creativity Needs Breathing Room

Some of the best ideas come when you’re not actively focused on solving a problem. Think about those “eureka” moments that occur in the shower or during a leisurely stroll. When you step away from work, you give your mind the freedom to wander and innovate, that’s why we often have our best ideas in the shower!

4. Modelling Healthy Boundaries

If you’re in a leadership role, your actions set the tone for your team. By taking time out, you demonstrate that prioritising your well-being is important. This fosters a culture of balance, where everyone—including you—can thrive. It’s a powerful way to lead by example.

5. Returning with Fresh Energy

Time away helps you return to work with renewed focus and energy. It’s like hitting the reset button. Those things that seemed overwhelming before you went away will seem much more manageable and you’ll be better equipped to tackle challenges with a clear mind.

As we head into 2025 how are you going to make sure you take time out in the year ahead? Here are some of my suggestions for making it happen:

Schedule it: Block time on your calendar for breaks, just as you would for an important meeting. Treat it as non-negotiable.
Unplug: Set boundaries with technology. Even a short digital detox can make a world of difference.
Start small: If taking a full week off feels impossible, begin with an afternoon off or a long weekend.
Make it regular: Consistent breaks are more effective than occasional long absences.

As a career coach, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative it is when my clients step back and recalibrate. Stepping back enables them to rediscover their passion for work and approach their career with a renewed sense of purpose and creativity.

So, the next time you’re tempted to power through, ask yourself: Could stepping away be the most productive thing you do today?