A Guide to Taking a Summer Break From Your Inbox

Summer has arrived, bringing relief from the hectic school year. As I embrace the season, I aim to cultivate a calmer approach to my responsibilities. A key aspect of this is addressing the internal pressures related to managing the constant flow of emails in my inbox.

While educators rarely find a perfect time to take a break, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care, both personally and professionally. Yet, even when we step away, the temptation to check our emails persists. Why is this so challenging?

Email Anxiety Among Administrators

A Harvard Business Review article highlighted that, on average, individuals check their emails 15 times daily. However, for educators, this figure tends to be higher due to the continuous communication with students, parents, and colleagues.

The frequent checking of emails has given rise to a modern workplace phenomenon termed “email anxiety.” This anxiety stems from the anticipation of sending or receiving important messages, leading to a subconscious breath-holding reaction known as “email apnea.”

Interestingly, there is also a prevalent fear associated with not checking emails, driven by concerns of missing critical updates or falling behind on responsibilities. This fear adds to the difficulty of disconnecting, even during necessary breaks.

How can we resist the urge to constantly check our email accounts, especially during periods of planned absence?

Taking a Break from Your Inbox

As summer settles in, consider employing the following strategies to promote a restful break and pave the way for a productive school year:

1. Establish Boundaries: Clearly communicate your absence to students, parents, and colleagues, along with alternative contacts. Provide details of when you will be unavailable and when they can expect a response. Setting clear boundaries ensures a balance between staying connected and enjoying your time away.

In lengthier breaks like summer, define specific check-in intervals, minimizing uncertainties. Inform recipients when you will review emails to manage expectations and maintain a sense of accessibility.

2. Schedule Email Check-ins: Dedicate set time slots for checking emails, even when not actively working. Structuring fixed periods for this task can reduce the impulse to constantly monitor your inbox, allowing for focused work and improved efficiency.

During extended absences, occasional review of emails can prevent overwhelming build-up and alleviate anxiety. Filter and prioritize messages, forwarding urgent ones as necessary.

3. Utilize Email Management Tools: Explore applications that streamline inbox management, such as filters or automated responses. Consider detaching email from personal devices to reduce temptation and create a clear boundary between work and leisure.

Practice mindful responses to mitigate anxiety triggers, incorporating breathing exercises or short meditations. Regulate your mindset before engaging with challenging messages, ensuring a measured and composed approach.

5. Disconnect Digitally: Embrace screen-free activities to rejuvenate your mind and body. Engage in pursuits like reading, outdoor walks, or quality time with loved ones to recharge and recalibrate away from digital distractions.

Implementing these tactics can help alleviate email-related stress and foster a balanced approach to personal and professional well-being.

Remember, prioritizing self-care is essential not just for personal welfare but also for professional effectiveness. By nurturing your well-being, you enhance your capacity to inspire and educate others around you.

Your mission this summer is to disconnect, unwind, and eliminate email anxiety to nurture a healthier work-life balance.