I have 3 days of vacation scheduled next month and I'm already stressed about it. Worried about emails piling up, worried my team will mess something up, worried my boss will realize they don't need me. Logically I know this is irrational but I can't seem to shake it. My wife says I need to just relax and enjoy the time with the family but my brain won't let me. Does this get easier?
Totally get the anxiety around stepping away. The truth is your team will be fine and honestly you'll be a better dad and coworker if you actually use your vacation days.
Man, I feel this. Taking time off feels impossible when you're worried about everything falling apart. But real talk, your team can handle three days and you need that break more than you think.
This is so relatable. I get anxious before any time off too. I think the key is remembering that your family needs you present more than your work needs you checking in. Set an auto-reply and actually step away. What's making you most worried about being gone?
Oh man, I have this exact same problem. I took a week off last year and spent half of it checking emails on my phone. My boss didn't even need me for most of it. Now I'm trying to actually disconnect when I take time, but it's hard.
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Three days is not that long. I know it feels like it when you're the person everyone depends on, but honestly your work will be fine. Your kids will remember you being there for those three days way more than your job needs you checking in from vacation.