For most people, the word “travel” conjures images of relaxing on white sandy beaches or adventures on snow-capped mountains. For many others, the purpose of their travel is for business rather than pleasure. But do they have to be mutually exclusive? Can travel be for both business and leisure?
Spoiler alert…yes, travel can be for both business and leisure. The three main differences between business travel and leisure travel are destination, activities, and mindset.
Your travel destination may be hard to adjust because presumably if you’re traveling for business it’s because you need to go to a specific place to conduct your business. Plus, with all the changes in business practices following Covid-19, remote work options may mean less business traveling overall.
So, in this post we will focus on the activities and mindset related to business travel. Let’s learn how these concepts can help boost the enjoyment of your business traveling.
Business Travel versus Vacation
Some of the activities in your travel will already be set. Whether scheduled by your hosts, yourself, or your administrative assistants, you will certainly have business to conduct. However, in almost all cases, you will have wiggle room in any unscheduled times to do the same type of activities you would do on a leisure vacation. How do I determine this blend of business and pleasure?
Once you’ve arrived at your business destination, consider setting aside specific time for relaxation. Plan ahead by asking yourself the following question: What would I be doing if this was a trip I planned for vacation?
Perhaps that involves swimming at the hotel pool, taking time at night to observe the stars, or exploring new restaurants. Even relaxing on the beach is possible, though you may need to adjust things like timing (e.g., lunch break rather than “all afternoon”) and practicality (e.g., dip your toes in the water but save your snorkel gear for a more practical time). After all, the professionals at your business meeting may not appreciate the smell of salty sea spray as much as you do!
With advanced thought, you can bring along some items to help. In fact, there are simple things you can bring without which you may not be able to do vacation-style activities. Bring these recommended walking shoes for men or for women because it’s hard to explore the boardwalk in your business loafers.
Take a swimsuit because chlorine doesn’t go well with your trousers or work blouse (up to you of course, but may want to consider a modest-style swimsuit given the possibility of running into colleagues or potential clients).
Don’t forget a travel-sized yoga mat to keep up with those enjoyable routines you enjoy at home. Having these items available is the first step in bridging between your exclusive focus on work travel towards a more balanced trip.
The Science of Work Productivity
The key takeaway here is to remind yourself that you can actually engage in pleasurable activities on your business trip. It does not have to be exclusively business or all fun and games. Put your business responsibilities first, but remember that all work and no play has actually been shown to decrease work productivity in the long-haul. So, take it from science and do touristy activities during your business trip.
“Bosses, your employees will love it if you mention the idea of taking extended time following the conclusion of their business trip.”
-Psychology of Travel
If you have the time, consider adding additional days to your business trip specifically for leisure vacation. Take the day off from work (be sure to let your boss know!) while you are already at a destination. Think about it, your vacation will be much more efficient since you won’t be spending it on the road, but rather you will already be there!
Bosses, your employees will love it if you mention the idea of taking extended time following the conclusion of their business trip. You get an employee that becomes more focused during the “work portion” of their travels. This is because they know that there will be time for desired vacation activities. So, this means fewer short-cuts to squeeze in time for tourist attractions and more productivity from your employers.
Mindset
Of all the dimensions of business travel we’ve considered here, you arguably have the most control over the mindset you carry into your business travel. Ask yourself, is the flight or drive to your destination just a means to a business end? Do you view your trip as being ushered into a traffic-filled commute rather than being leisurely chauffeured through the air? May be time to shift your attitude.
Also, look for opportunities to see and explore a new place rather than dwelling on any hassle of having to be away from your home environment. Learn the local culture, business-wise and other-wise. Doing so will serve you well in your business dealings (who doesn’t like a cultured, informed, and respectful person to work alongside?).
“Learn the local culture, business-wise and other-wise. Doing so will serve you well in your business dealings.”
-Psychology of Travel
Also, try to notice one new sight or part of the experience that you’ve never noticed before on every respective business trip. Doing so will help you develop a sense of mindfulness, grounding you in the here and now. It’s also fun to explore, which of course includes the simple act of noticing the things around you. Find time to intentionally admire the novelty. Heck, you can even do this part on your commute in to work, not just when you’re traveling to distant shores.
Ultimately, reduced stress and positivity has been shown to demonstrate improvements in work functioning and motivation. So, serve your business needs by taking the best mindset for your business travels. Your mind, your body, and your boss will appreciate it.
Happy Travels,
-Dr. L
Founder, PsychologyofTravel.com
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