I love the idea of a full digital detox during vacation. Really, I do. That clean inbox, the auto-reply set to “see you in two weeks,” the phone left in the hotel drawer. But let’s be honest — for some roles, it’s not always that simple.
Especially in HR — where things don’t always wait, and sometimes, no one else can pick up the thread while you’re gone. When you’re handling sensitive contracts, or tracking final interviews, or preparing payroll data before a deadline… there’s not always someone else with the full picture.
So yes, I’m technically out of office. But I’ll be honest — I still check in. Not constantly, not obsessively. But enough to know that there’s no fire brewing under the surface. A five-minute email check in the morning can save me from a five-hour cleanup when I get back.
It’s not about not trusting the team. It’s about the reality of certain roles, and the responsibility that doesn’t always take a holiday. And strangely enough, I’ve found that this is what actually helps me relax more. Knowing I’ve checked, and it’s fine. Knowing I’ve responded to that one quick thing, and it won’t snowball.
Is it ideal? Maybe not. But it’s honest. And I think more of us are living in that in-between space — where rest and responsibility have to coexist, not compete.