SWITCH OFF: Why Your Brain Needs Silence on Holiday

Summer is a time for rest, at least in theory. But have you ever caught yourself on the way to a holiday destination, wondering whether the WiFi at the accommodation works? Or found yourself at the top of a hiking trail, holding your phone up to catch a signal just to “quickly check Slack”? If so, welcome. You’re not alone.

We increasingly see people replying to emails on the beach, reading Slack messages on hiking trails, or attending Teams meetings around a campfire. As a psychologist, I’ve witnessed how this kind of “rest” often drains people more than work itself.

In today’s work culture, where the line between work and personal life is increasingly blurred, many of us struggle to truly switch off, even during weekends or vacations. We grab our phones to “just check emails”, think about work while lying on the beach or sneak a glance at Slack after breakfast. This behaviour isn’t accidental—there are deeper reasons behind it.

1. Habit and even dependency

We’ve become used to a constant stream of information and instant responsiveness. Our brains start to crave stimulation, even when we have the chance to step away from it all.

2. Fear of missing out (FOMO)

There’s often a fear that if we miss an important message or decision, we’ll lose control or fall behind.

3. Work culture expectations

In some organizations, being “always available” has become an unspoken norm. Whether due to peer behaviour, leadership expectations, or simply the desire to appear committed, these pressures make true disconnection hard.

4. Identity and self-worth

When a big part of your identity is tied to your job, stepping away from work can feel like stepping into a void. Not working on weekends or holidays can make us feel like we’re losing part of our value.

Understanding these factors is the first step toward building a healthier relationship with work.

Why Rest Truly Matters

Our brains and bodies aren’t designed to stay “on” all the time. Without genuine recovery time, our mental and physical health begins to suffer.

• Mental fatigue affects creativity, problem-solving, and emotional flexibility. Constant work mode reduces our ability to adapt and generate new ideas.
• Physical health is also at risk. Chronic overexertion leads to poor sleep, higher stress levels, and a weakened immune system, making us more vulnerable to illness.
• Relationships suffer, too. If our attention remains focused on work, even during a time meant for loved ones, it creates tension, misunderstandings, and emotional distance.

And perhaps most surprisingly, productivity drops when we don’t rest. Paradoxically, we become more effective when we know how to step away. A fresh perspective and renewed energy are essential for sustained performance.

Rest is not a luxury—it’s a vital investment in yourself and your ability to work well.

• Plan your vacation early. Block the time in your calendar and inform your team. This creates clear boundaries and expectations.

• Set expectations. Agree with your team on who handles urgent issues and under what circumstances you can be contacted. When everyone is familiar with the ground rules, it’s easier to relax.

• Say no to notifications. Turn off email and app alerts or move them off your home screen. Less checking = more peace.

• Set a real rest goal. Ask yourself: What do I want to experience during this break? A hike, a good book, or time with family or friends? A clear intention reduces the temptation to drift back into work mode.

• Remember: you don’t have to be a superhero. No one benefits if you return from vacation burned out. A truly rested you is more joyful, creative, and resilient.

Vacation is a gift to yourself—and to the people you work with.

In today’s world, the ability to truly rest is becoming increasingly rare and essential. If you feel guilty about putting your phone down or compelled to always “be available”, that’s a clear sign you need deliberate rest.

Rest is like charging a battery. None of us plug in a charger for just a few minutes and expect a full battery—so why do we treat our own energy that way?

Ask yourself honestly: Do I truly rest during vacation, or am I just switching apps?