Business travel is frequently considered to be a perk of a job rather than a chore, but that doesn’t mean it is without its flaws. People who travel regularly for work, particularly long-distance travelers, know that it isn’t as glamorous as it may initially seem.
In reality, traveling long distances often means grueling schedules, late hours, early starts, and tons of jet lag. In a recent study, the Harvard Business Review found that people who travel for longer than two weeks at a time are more prone to mental health risks like increased anxiety, depression, and chronic insomnia.
If you are going on a long-distance business trip shortly, follow these five expert tips below for getting through it in one happy piece:
- 1. Rest In the Air
Long-distance business trips go hand in hand with long-distance flights. Working during your flight may seem like a productive way to pass the time, but you must adopt a policy of resting in the air.
Take a nap, read a book, watch a movie – do whatever relaxes you. Keep your phone off and your laptop stored away. Switching off and disengaging is crucial for your mental health and will help you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready for the busy days ahead.
- 2. Meditate
Working against the clock, sticking to your real estate schedule, and meeting crazy deadlines takes a massive toll on your body and mind. Back-to-back intense activity on top of an already hectic schedule can quickly leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unsettled.
All frequent long-distance business travelers know that a 10-minute meditation break can do wonders for your journey. Focusing your mind, body, and soul starts with centering your breath and rebalancing your busy mind.
- 3. Book In Advance
Landing in a busy business destination in Canada can be an intense experience if you’ve never been there before. Instead of running around in a flat panic when you land, book your accommodation well in advance.
Choose from the top ten short-term rentals in Toronto and book your favorite at least a week before you leave. It is recommended that you pick a spot close to public transport points and restaurants, that will cut down your commute times while you are there and decrease your stress levels.
- 4. Smart Flying Tips
As tempting as it may be to have a few glasses of wine on the plane, resist the temptation. The lower barometric pressure in the cabin will increase the effects of alcohol, so limit yourself to one glass and one glass only.
Long-haul business flights carry an increased risk of dehydration, and a hangover on top of your jet lag will smash your immune system to pieces and wreak havoc on your productivity. Drink plenty of water and snack on healthy things like fruit and nuts.
- 5. Airport Lounges
Airport lounges will become your go-to spaces for Wi-Fi, charging stations, food, drinks, and even spa treatments. They enhance business travel and are a fantastic place to relax before long-haul flights.
Access to these lounges is typically reserved for business class passengers but they can occasionally be bought separately.
Long-distance business trips don’t have to be isolating experiences. By following the tips above, you can be prepared in advance and make tweaks to your schedule to make the trips as productive as possible, all while keeping your mental health in check.
