B is for Bleisure (the business part of combining work and fun).
After a recent five-day work conference and catching up three days before and after in the same city with friends, I was reminded that those of us who fully embrace Bleisure Living must also remember the importance of another B — BALANCE.
Otherwise, a trip that looked fun in advance could quickly turn into an overwhelming experience where both business and leisure suffer.
Here are my top three tips to make the most of your combined travel experience:
- Swap the gin for ginger ale. When catching up with dozens of friends in a short timespan, “two drink max” will quickly add up if you are on your third or fourth social outing in a row. Especially if you’ve taken a long flight, remember to take care of YOU and perhaps suggest a healthy alternative such as a smoothie or juice bar.
- Block your time and leave buffers. Conversations with people you haven’t seen in ages may take longer than expected. Just as airlines pad their flight times, plan your Bleisure Living getaway with lots of extra time in between seeing different people. Who knows? You might even get a little time for you. Scheduling in advance and trying to keep all of your meet-ups in the same area is another great practice.
- Let work be work, and play be play. Although you may be just miles from close friends and the temptation to sneak away may exist, remember your primary reason for travel (and, in many cases, the company paying for your flight) and stay focused. Sleep well, attend the extra-curricular work events, and meet with the colleagues you need to see. Your friends will understand. I intentionally added extra days to my trip so I could dedicate time to catching up with friends, distraction-free.
Of all the tips shared above, maybe the most important final thought is gratitude. One is truly fortunate to be able to enjoy Bleisure Living.
I am grateful that my company allows me to travel and that I have multiple people outside of work who want to see me in that city!
Thank you to everyone at work and play who made my trip back to the U.S. so balanced!
