Imagine this: You’re on a white-sand beach, the ocean breeze brushing against your skin. You’ve traded your scrubs for sunglasses, and for once, your phone is on silent. No patient calls. No charts. Just you, a book you’ve actually wanted to read, and a cocktail in hand.
Vacation You is different.
You try new foods without overthinking and strike up conversations with strangers. You even nap without guilt, laugh louder, breathe deeper, and somehow, time feels a little slower.
But then you return to your day-to-day life, and something shifts. The adventurous spirit fades. The spontaneous decisions disappear. The constant sense of responsibility returns.
However, why does that version of you — the free, curious, and calm version — only appear when you’re on vacation?
Why We Change on Vacation
On vacation, you step away from routine. More importantly, you step away from roles and expectations. As a doctor, you’re used to being precise, responsible, and always on alert. But on vacation, those expectations vanish. You’re not ‘Dr. [Your Last Name]’ — you’re simply you.
So, what if you didn’t have to wait for vacation to feel that way?
How to Bring “Vacation You” Into Everyday Life
1️⃣ Get Clear on What Vacation You Loves
- Is it the slow mornings? The freedom to explore? The sense of being present?
- Write down the specific things that bring you joy when you’re away.
2️⃣ Design Micro-Vacations in Your Routine
- You don’t need a plane ticket to experience freedom. Schedule small moments that bring you joy — even if it’s just a 15-minute tea break where you unplug.
3️⃣ Reframe Your Fear of Disruption
- You’re not “rocking the boat” by choosing yourself — you’re creating balance.
- Ask yourself: Would Vacation Me be afraid to try something new?
4️⃣ Set Boundaries Like a Traveler
- On vacation, you don’t check work emails at the beach. Why not have similar boundaries at home?
- Block off “Do Not Disturb” time — even if it’s just one hour a day.
5️⃣ Stay Curious and Adventurous
- Vacation You tries new foods and activities. What if you brought that curiosity into your career?
- Experiment with your schedule, your hobbies, and even your approach to patient care.
Ready to Let Vacation You Thrive?
Don’t wait for your next trip to feel free. Start exploring how to bring that joyful, curious, and relaxed version of yourself into every day — even in your scrubs. Book a clarity call for 1:1 consultation to work less and live anywhere as a doctor.