As 2024 came to a close, I realized I’d been running on empty for nearly five years. Life had been a whirlwind since 2019—my father’s passing after a rapid health decline, a global pandemic upending daily life, leaving a 30-year financial services career, and launching my own business.

Along the way, I also wrote a book, joined two Boards, earned three new certifications, tackled caregiving for loved ones, grieved the loss of my beloved dog, and took on home improvement projects that transformed my surroundings. While the work was meaningful and the growth immense, the pace was relentless. By year-end, it was clear: I needed to pause, breathe, reflect, and rest.

So, my husband and I embarked on a two-week trip to Norway to stay with our chosen family. Fully immersing ourselves in their Christmas and year-end traditions, I did something I often advise my clients to do—I unplugged completely. No emails, no social media, no work. It was a full digital detox, and it was exactly what I needed.

Here’s what I learned—and why disconnecting can be a game-changer for leaders, professionals, and anyone navigating a fast-paced life.

What I Learned From Unplugging

The Business Thrived Without Me
By informing my clients in advance that I’d be unavailable for nearly three weeks, I allowed them to plan ahead for their needs. The result? No interruptions, no crises. Stepping away reminded me of the value of trust, communication, and systems that enable the business to thrive—even in my absence.

A Clearer Vision Emerged
Before I left, I’d outlined my vision for 2025, but stepping away allowed it to truly take root. Returning with fresh eyes helped me refine and solidify my goals with greater clarity and focus.

Better Focus, Less Stress
Unplugging recharged me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I returned more responsive than reactive, with the ability to prioritize and make decisions more effectively. Saying “yes” and “no” feels cleaner and more aligned, and I’m sleeping better as a result.

Renewed Team Energy
My support team also benefited from the downtime. They returned reinvigorated, full of fresh ideas, and excited about what lies ahead. A break is a powerful tool for both individual and team well-being.

A Healthier Relationship With Social Media
Stepping away from constant scrolling helped me reset my boundaries. Now, just a few intentional minutes each day keep me connected without draining my time or energy.

Why This Matters for You

Taking time to disconnect is not just a luxury; it’s an essential practice for personal and professional growth. If you’re a leader navigating high-pressure demands, here’s how a digital detox could benefit you:

Gain Perspective: Stepping back creates space for clarity, creativity, and strategic thinking.

Prevent Burnout: Rest is fuel. Periodic unplugging helps replenish energy, making you more effective when you’re back.

Strengthen Trust: Showing your team that the business can thrive without you empowers them and builds resilience.

Model Healthy Boundaries: Your ability to unplug sets a powerful example for others to do the same.

How to Plan Your Digital Detox

If you’re inspired to try this for yourself, here are a few tips to ensure success:

Communicate Early: Let your clients, team, and stakeholders know your plans and how they can prepare.

Set Boundaries: Create a plan for truly unplugging—turn off notifications, set auto-replies, and delegate urgent matters.

Choose Your Timing Wisely: Find a period where you can step away without major disruptions.

Embrace the Reset: Lean into rest and reflection, trusting that the world will keep turning in your absence.

Taking the time to pause and reset isn’t just an act of self-care—it’s an investment in your leadership, your business, and your life. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that stepping away isn’t the end of productivity; it’s the beginning of something far more sustainable and impactful.

Would you like to explore how intentional breaks can transform your leadership and team? Let’s start a conversation.

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