Once a year, I try to take a trip with each of my daughters, Zoe (14) and Gabrielle (12). Most recently, I went to Boston with Gabi. I could talk in depth about why Boston is a lovely city…but to be honest, we could have been anywhere and enjoyed it.

The whole point was stepping away and creating a space for quality time.

If you’re thinking—But I’m way too busy and stressed to get away from work!—that’s precisely the time to do it.

“We often take a militaristic, ‘tough’ approach to resilience and grit. We imagine a Marine slogging through the mud, a boxer going one more round, or a football player picking himself up off the turf for one more play. We believe that the longer we tough it out, the tougher we are, and therefore the more successful we will be. However, this entire conception is scientifically inaccurate.” -Resilience Is About How You Recharge, Not How You Endure

I know first-hand that when you’re with a 12-year-old in Boston, you’re in the moment. You’re paying attention. Sure, you might look at your iPhone for a second, but that’s it—because you want to be immersed in the experience. It’s this kind of time—away from work—that makes you better, stronger and more resilient upon reentry.

Need motivation to step away? From The Secret to Increased Productivity: Taking Time Off:

·      Studies show that performance increases after breaks of all durations: from extended vacations down to micro-breaks of 30 seconds.

·      Entrepreneurs are often celebrated for wearing multiple hats and logging numerous hours. But working without letup is a bad habit that can jeopardize business, health and the life you're supposedly working toward.

·      Continuous time on-task sets off strain reactions, such as stress, fatigue and negative mood, which drain focus and physical and emotional resources. The brain's ability to self-regulate--to stay disciplined--wanes with each exercise of self-control during the day.

Of course, stepping away from a business that requires constant attention is difficult. But you undoubtedly get more done quicker when you step away and recharge the brain and body.


Where will you be headed on your next resilience-infusing break?