Studies show that health problems tend to increase among employees who
travel often. Corporate travelers are especially vulnerable because of the
sudden changes in climate, daily routine, sleep patterns, and high intensity
workload. Here are some tips for keeping some of the stress at bay:
1--> If you travel weekly, don't deal with the packing and unpacking; just stay
packed!
- Keep a set of "travel" toiletries packed, replacing things as
needed. These will feel "homey" when you use them.
- When you stay in hotels often, you know which ones have good
valet and laundry services. Leave your dirty clothes in the bag
and just give them to the valet as soon as you arrive; you'll have
nice fresh clothes for the rest of the trip. Conversely, give your
laundry to the valet the day before you leave and pack the clean
clothes ready for next week's trip.
- Get "travel" clothes, items made specially because the material
holds up well to the rigors of suitcase life. Build your wardrobe
around two or three basic items that you can rely on to look great
right out of the suitcase. Changing shirt/blouse and tie/scarf can
make the same neutral suit look entirely different the next day.
2--> Slow down a little bit. Instead of arriving at the airport just in time to
almost miss your flight, schedule yourself for that two hour time frame
the airlines request.
- Bring a good book; indulge in a guilty pleasure, like a specialty
coffee or iced drink; just relax for an hour before boarding the
plane.
- If the gate your plane leaves from is crowded, move down or
across to one that's not as busy, you'll still be able to hear the
boarding call and it will be more relaxing to read without all the
bustle.
- Shop for small items. Lots of the airport concessions have
sales on jewelry, scarves, books etc. Consider this your
birthday/holiday shopping trip. (Just remember that you have to
carry it now!)
- Rewarding yourself (instead of punishing) will help to cut down
on the stress to your immune system and boost your spirits!
3--> Stay in touch with home! Nothing makes you feel better than knowing
the score of this afternoon's soccer game or that little Janey got an A on
her science test. Catching up is difficult, staying in touch is easy!
4--> Eat right!! Take time out for good meals, not fast food! Ask the folks
around you for restaurant suggestions. Try not to order room service
unless absolutely necessary!
5--> Sleep is vital. Lack of sleep will make you moody, angry, and stressed
out. That just makes you even more vulnerable to illness. If you can't
sleep in unfamiliar surroundings, try getting a small travel alarm that
has white noise sleep enhancers. Sometimes something as simple
as turning on the fan, without heat or air conditioning, creates just
enough comfort noise to help you sleep.
6--> If there is a pool or workout room, exercise is a great stress reliever. You can also get elastic bands that don't take up room or weight in
suitcases but can give you some good stretching exercise in your room.
7--> Try to have a little fun, even on a business trip. A 20 minute walk,
window shopping or in the park, will make you feel much better!
|
