A business trip can be an exciting opportunity for professional growth, but it will often come with disrupted routines, irregular schedules, and long hours. All of these aspects can take a toll on your mental and physical health.
When you are away from the comforts and stability of your own home for an extended period, it is particularly crucial to stay intentional about your wellbeing. The good news? You can maintain healthy habits and even thrive during your time away with a bit of planning and the right mindset.
From this post, you will learn about three practical ways to prioritize your health on a month-long business trip, from making smart bookings to creating consistent routines.
Make Bookings Ahead of Time
When you have an upcoming business trip, it is essential to start planning with plenty of time to spare. After all, leaving things to the last minute will only result in more stress, which can harm your health. In fact, increased or ongoing stress could cause you to become unwell. You can reduce the risk of this by making bookings.
There are numerous aspects that you should book in advance, including flights, trains, and accommodations. While booking these aspects in advance will give you a sense of security, you will also be able to ensure your lodging has the required amenities. This will extend beyond just a domestic flight and a standard bedroom suite to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible.
Accommodation features like blackout blinds, climate-controlled rooms, and 24/7 gym access should be prioritized, as they can help you to combat fatigue and exercise regularly. The latter is offered by Delsuites, which allows you to explore Mississauga using short term rentals designed for business travelers. This company also has furnished suites in the rest of the Greater Toronto Area.
Establish a Consistent Routine
Being in an unfamiliar environment can increase the risks to your health, so maintaining a routine close to your own is vital. Routines can help combat the adverse effects of disrupted sleep, poor nutrition, and social isolation, all of which often accompany business travel. Establishing a consistent routine increases your likelihood of being energized and focused on your objectives.
After booking your accommodation, you will have a better understanding of your location and the available amenities, allowing you to plan your routine more effectively. This might include checking grocery stores for healthy foods, packing earplugs to help you sleep, or assessing the distance from your lodging to your meeting spaces to determine if you can walk. These considerations should be taken into account when selecting a routine that benefits you throughout your trip.
The basics to maintain include hydration and sleep, so ensure you have adequate time each day to eat nutritious foods, drink plenty of water, and get enough rest. This will be easier to do when you know when your meetings will be during your business travels.
Set Healthy Boundaries
A business trip can disrupt your work-life balance, as your usual working hours are altered and you have little familiarity with your surroundings. You are more likely to experience burnout as a result, which could impact your performance at work. This is why you must prioritize boundaries that can maintain your wellbeing and allow you time to recharge.
To maintain healthy boundaries, it is essential to follow your routine and make time for self-care. It may be beneficial to schedule specific times or days during your business trip for self-care, such as taking a morning walk or visiting a local tourist attraction. Just because your trip is primarily for work doesn’t mean you cannot find little moments of enjoyment to stay healthy, both mentally and physically.
To conclude, a month-long business trip can make sticking to your usual day-to-day habits more challenging, but it doesn’t have to be this way. If you follow the tips outlined in this post, you can prioritize your health during this time.