I've recently cut back on travel, but there was a time when I spent one to two weeks out of every month traveling for work.
Business travel is always hectic for me rushing to pack, making flights, and prepping for meetings all while living out of a suitcase.
As a mother, now there's even more to do: get everyone at home ready for my departure, make lists of things to do and reminders for everyone (myself included) and remember to throw a pair of peds in my purse so that my feet aren't infected when I'm forced to remove my shoes at airport security.
Even though traveling for work can be stressful, I've discovered something liberating about it too: if planned well, the time away can be used as a mini-vacation.
Now, I realize there won't be fancy dinners or spa treatments (although if you really plan your time wisely, why not?), but I use the time to sleep, catch up on reading and take advantage of my favorite indulgence: room service.
Here's my method of setting up the perfect business trip:
Before heading out
- Prepare a schedule for each child, Dad and or any helpers / caregivers.
- Let some friends know you'll be away so they can check in and offer play dates.
- PACK! In addition to suits, your laptop, and all the basics, throw in:
Your favorite nail polish and remover
The face mask you've never used
Fashion magazines, a book you've been meaning to get through any reading materials not related to work or family.
Your most comfortable pajamas and slippers
As ridiculous as it sounds, I love to pack an eye pillow even though it slips off once I'm asleep, I seem to sleep so much better with it. Could be the calming lavender scent or, more likely, the absence of children and pets running around.
After a long day of work
- Once you're done with meeting clients, making presentations or whatever you need to, head back to your hotel room, throw on your pajamas, break open a bottle of wine from the mini bar and order in from the room service menu.
- While waiting for your meal, check in with the family and then slather on your face mask, paint your toenails and sit back to relax.
- After your skin is smooth, your toes are beautiful and your tummy is full, dive into your magazines to catch up on the latest gossip and fashion before drifting off to a night of well-deserved, uninterrupted sleep.
So, instead of stressing out when you're called away for business, keep the tips above in mind to make the trip as enjoyable as possible.
Remember, how often do you have time to yourself anymore?
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