Travel doesn’t always go smoothly. Working while traveling adds an extra level of stress. Sometimes it can get so overwhelming that you can’t focus on your task.
There are plenty of things you can do to stay focused during a stressful trip.
In this article, we’ll go over some ways to help you stay on top of your work and travel game at the same time.
1.Planning Ahead
Planning for everything is impossible. But that shouldn’t stop you from planning as much as possible.
Have a packing list prepared ahead of time. Organize your suitcase in the order that you’ll need things.
Plan what you are going to work on while traveling. Use the plane ride to catch up on reading or editing documents.
Keep in mind that things can change at the last minute.
Your plane could get canceled. The clients you’re meeting could be late.
Have a list of things you could do when you end up with extra time. Sitting around with nothing to do will only lead to worrying.
If you’re presenting a PowerPoint or product, practice in front of the mirror before you leave.
2.Knowing Your Rights
This goes hand in hand with planning.
Your employer will give you a budget. If you have the flexibility to make your own decisions, calculate costs ahead of time.
Know what you are entitled to during your work trip. Work travel could qualify you for overtime pay or reimbursements.
If you’re traveling with your own vehicle, understand the company’s mileage policy.
Here is information on company gas policies for travel.
Company policies and legal rights fluctuate frequently. Stay up to date on recent policy changes.
3.Take Some Time for Yourself
This might seem like counterintuitive advice, but that’s not so.
Everyone needs a bit of a break. If your mind is too focused on work, you’ll stop being productive.
You need to take at least a few minutes for yourself every day.
Travel puts extra stress on your body, so this is particularly true when traveling.
Take a few minutes to meditate, read a book, or do whatever you find relaxing.
If your hotel has a gym or wellness center, take advantage of it. Head outside for a walk and do some sightseeing.
The best part of travel is seeing and experiencing new places.
Check out what unique dishes the country or city is famous for. Or see if there is a cool art exhibit close to your hotel.
Everyone relaxes in different ways. Do what works best for you.
4.Avoid the Internet
The internet is great for keeping in touch with friends and family. If you’re working, you might need to use it.
However, it can be one of the most distracting parts of travel.
Hearing about problems at home or at the office will only distract you from your task.
There’s a lot of downtime during travel. When you’re waiting for your flight, it’s tempting to look at the news on your phone.
Stay focused in the moment by traveling with an old-fashioned book. Here’s a list of the best business books to read this year.
Having a real book will impress your colleagues. Books are also great conversation starters.
Other internet-free things to do are keep a travel diary, read a local newspaper, or play a game of solitaire with a deck of cards.
5.Communicate Your Problems
Travel puts a strain on your body and mind.
If you’re new to travel, you might find traveling for work overwhelming.
Talk about your problems with your colleagues and boss. They might have some tips or ways to help you out.
When things go wrong, there’s nothing wrong with ranting about it.
However, your boss might not be the best person to rant to. Call a friend or family member instead to vent about your problems.
Tell the hotel that you’re traveling for work. They’ll make sure you have the room with the best wifi.
If you experience any problems, communicate them with the hotel or airline.
People in the hospitality industry want to help you.
Conclusion
When things go wrong, the best thing to do is have a good attitude. If you follow these tips, you’ll be better prepared for a stressful trip.
