Now when I take time off I

Allow my team to handle the operation
Rely on processes to keep things running smoothly
Delete my work email from my phone

The difference is all in the preparation.

*Also, I am looking for a couple of passionate and high-energy NHAs in the Baltimore and Philadelphia market. Join an organization with over a Billion dollars of planned expansion in the next five years. If you're interested, reach out to me by replying to this email.*

Taking Care of Yourself

You may think this topic comes with a dose of poor timing since summer has come and gone.

Hear me out.

You are some of the hardest working groups of professionals in the world. You've been going non-stop for 2.5 years, 24/7.

You took time off this summer—a few days here or there, or maybe a whole week.

But you never disconnected. Instead of returning refreshed, you returned frustrated at yourself for not taking the mental break you needed.

You're heading into the Fall with PTO in the bank and no plan to utilize it. After all, it's budget season.

I'm going out on a limb and not suggesting, not asking, but firmly telling you to plan time off this Fall.

Here are a few tips to ensure your time off is fulfilling and has you returning in a better headspace to lead.

Plan ahead

Plan your time off and block off your calendar at least four weeks in advance to include getting whatever permission or approval you need from your boss.

Take a full week off and, if possible, pair it with a conference or time out of the building. For example, if you have an industry or state association conference coming up, plan your week off immediately following the conference. You will feel more relaxed going into your vacation and trick your mind into feeling like you have more time off than just a week.

Prepare your team

At the same time, schedule a 15-45 minute 1:1 with each of your direct reports the week before your time off. This intentional touchpoint will serve as your time to prepare your leaders for situations and coverage needed while you're out. I like to follow this general cadence during those conversations.

What do you need from me before my time off?
Here's what I need from you during my time off.
Here's who to call if you need support and when to loop them in.
What unexpected or expected situations should we prepare for?

Prepare your boss

Follow the same pre-vacation meeting schedule with your boss, and any other stakeholders you expect will be called upon in your absence. Be clear and concise regarding support your team may need in your absence and how you've prepared your team ahead of time.

Not only will it prepare them to better support your team, but they will also be impressed with your attention to detail.

Empower an emerging leader

Every facility or community I have ever been a part of has an eager, AIT-hopeful, aspiring leader. Leverage their passion for helping with tasks and responsibilities within their capabilities to support the community while you're gone. It will help you out, and they will be thrilled with the opportunity to grow.

Prepare your communication

Set your auto-reply and let it work in your favor. Once you leave the community, delete that email app and let your boss and community team know to call you for any emergencies. You have to remove the temptation of having your email in your pocket.

Trust the process, trust your team, and enjoy your time off.

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Grab your coffee and make it a great day. We appreciate you and your dedication to your team and residents. -Thank you!