By Jason W. Womack, MEd, MA
Looking at your calendar for the month, you may have a trip (or two) already planned. While being “on the road” is good for business, it can take its toll on your health, relationships, and well-being. Here are three things to consider as you get ready to board that flight:
ALWAYS: Invest in important duplicates for travel. Have you experienced the sinking feeling that hits the moment you realize you don’t have a phone charger, hairbrush, or the vitamins you take “almost” every day? It’s worth investing in a duplicate set of power chargers for your phone, laptop, and other tech devices, as well as a duplicate set of toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, grooming products, etc.) Keep them in your travel bag, so you don’t have to unplug your office setup and raid your bathroom before every trip.
SOMETIMES: Avoid traveling or meeting during the busiest times of day. For example, in New York City, taxi drivers change shifts between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m., so getting a cab to a meeting that’s scheduled for mid-afternoon can be difficult and time consuming. The same goes for traveling to and from the airport (or anywhere) during rush hour in any big city.
NEVER: Practice when it’s important. Too many times, I’ve seen people need to know how something works (their Web-based e-mail program, a collaboration software program, a new piece of tech gear such as a camera or smart phone) under pressure. Don’t wait. Practice making a video, working collaboratively on a small project, or accessing information when you’re away from the office before you need to. This will make you look good, and reduce the amount of stress you build up to when it comes time to perform.
For more information, visit www.womackcompany.com, or http://www.twitter.com/jasonwomack or e-mail Jason@WomackCompany.com.
