I have just come back from a relaxing holiday filled with sleeping in, night time campfires and lots of laughter. As soon as I step back in the office I can feel the stress build up in my shoulders and hear my inner-self say, “Better get at it and get productive, cause you need to make up the time you were away.” Wait, who is that? How did they get in here? I mean, cut me some slack. Isn’t relaxation and vacation good fodder to a happy worker and workplace?

I know the person who is hardest on me is myself. I push myself, I keep myself going with the little nudges to do more, get more out of myself and all of that will mean a better bottom-line and return on my time investment. Hmmmm. I think I used to believe that. I am not sure I do anymore. I know that if I shut out distractions (phone, email, Twitter, Yammer, Facebook and the sudden urge for more coffee) I can be very productive. I know, I have proven that to myself. However, when I become my own drill sergeant and literally push myself from the inside out, demanding more, I actually become less productive. There is something inside that rebels against “drill sergeant me” and works less efficiently.

We need time to stretch, to take a break and get our brains clear. Working for hours without blinking or taking a break actually works against you. Be honest with yourself. If you are in the groove then work it but if you are producing nothing, then move on to something else. Don’t let this be an excuse to slack off or procrastinate — that doesn’t work well personally or for your business.

I want to bring that vacation attitude back into my office. Get done what needs to be done, but do not attempt to push myself over the edge by doing it. Make use of good productive time, but remember to laugh, relax, stretch and live life while doing it. Most importantly, to quit being the hardest person on myself.