Work and Vacation? Where to Draw the Line?
Everyone knows that freelancers enjoy a level of freedom, which allows them to work from any location: home office, back porch, library, coffee shop, etc. Before buying my first laptop six months ago, I didn’t understand the joy that comes with mobility. Now, I don’t leave town without my computer. Whether I’m headed off to enjoy a weekend getaway or family vacation, you best believe I have my laptop in hand.
Although my computer bag is the first thing I pack whenever I have plans to be away, it’s not because I plan to work. Although I have worked on vacation (not because I had to, but because I wanted to), the work was never from a client. Therefore, I didn’t have to worry about due dates or guidelines.
Sometimes, we can get so caught up in our assignments that we forget other interests. In my case, vacations present the perfect opportunity to enjoy a little creative writing…and that’s exactly what I do - amongst other things.
I’ve read several blog posts and articles from fellow work at home professionals; and I have to admit, I’m surprised by the number of telecommuters who stay in contact with clients while on vacation - a few even accept and complete assignments. I guess we all have our definition of vacation. Getaways are my way of escaping life - work, stress, chores - and deadlines are the last thing on my mind.
I alert clients to my absence in-advance, and I set an automatic vacation response. Every so often, I will check e-mail on vacation - once a day. But that’s where I draw the line.
Technorati Tags: work at home, freelance, telecommute, self-employed, vacation
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Sometimes I unplug when I’m on vacation, but I admit I’ve stayed up the night before to get work to the point where I could afford to do that. I’ve also, on occasion, taken work with me… and while I’d rather not do that I also consider myself quite lucky that work is portable.
Being portable is definitely a great perk, and completing assignments early is smart. If I plan to be away for longer than a week, I’ll work longer hours the week prior, which compensates for the time off.