Power Down to Power Up: How High-Achieving Women Find Rest on Vacation

Summer is here, and for many driven women, the idea of vacation sounds like a dream — but actually taking that break (and truly resting!) can feel easier said than done. Whether you’re leading in business, building a company, or managing a demanding role, how you plan and prepare for your time away is a reflection of how you lead yourself.

The good news? With thoughtful planning, you can fully unplug, recharge, and return stronger. Here are practical tips to help you make the most of your vacation — without compromising your bottom line or your well-being.

Before Your Vacation

• Set your availability

  Decide how connected you’ll be during your break. Will you check in occasionally, or unplug completely? Whatever you choose, clearly communicate your plan to colleagues, clients, and partners so expectations are managed up front.
  

• Communicate early

  Notify your team or clients 4–6 weeks before your vacation. Before you leave, update your voicemail and set an email auto-reply. Let people know when you’ll be back, and provide a point of contact for urgent matters in your absence.

During Your Vacation

• Capture ideas — then let them go

  It’s common for creative ideas and work thoughts to pop up when you slow down. Keep a small notebook or use your phone’s notes app to jot these down — and then set them aside until you return.
  

• Truly unplug

  Give yourself permission to rest, relax, and recharge. This isn’t optional — it’s essential. The more fully you step away, the more refreshed you’ll feel.

  
  

• Set boundaries with technology

  Consider limiting screen time by designating a short daily window (if needed) to check your phone or email. Turn off work-related notifications, and think twice about bringing your laptop along.

  
  

• Embrace the present moment

  Whether you’re exploring a new place, enjoying time with loved ones, or savoring quiet solitude, be intentional. Practice mindfulness: notice your surroundings, take deep breaths, and let yourself simply be.

After Your Vacation

• Ease back in

  Block the first 2–3 days of your return for catching up. Use this time to review emails, return calls, and meet with your team before diving into meetings and major projects.

  
  

• Update your communications

  Remember to change your voicemail and disable your out-of-office message. Signal that you’re back and ready to re-engage.

Why It Matters

True rest equips you to show up as your best self — at work and in life. Make the most of your break so you can return recharged and ready to make an impact.

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Ellie Nieves, JD, MBA, is a Women’s Leadership Strategist and Speaker. She is the Founder of Leadership Strategies for Women, LLC, which powers the Women’s Leadership Institute. Through webinars, courses, and master classes, she equips high-achieving women with the tools to show up, speak up, and step up in their careers.