Celebrate Freedom from Your E-mail Inbox
Aaaah, its the Fourth of July. That glorious weekend that includes the aroma of barbecues are in the air and red, white, and blue star-shaped cookies on the picnic table. On behalf of Gen Y employees across the nation this Independence Day, I’d like to say…
Put down the Blackberry/iPhone, pick up a hamburger and look up at the fireworks.
We’ve talked a little bit about Gen Y and their drive to find the perfect work/life balance. They are not a generation of slackers, but are people that do desire to get rest – and, they perceive that older generations do not understand what it means to take a break.
I’m sure you’ve heard of the many health benefits of taking a vacation, but I believe the same positive effects can happen if you’re simply turning off work for the July 4th holiday. In a 2009 NPR report, Brenda Wilson spoke with the University of Pittsburgh Mind-Body Center about their research on almost 1,400 participants who were selected for other studies about cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems.
When asked about their leisure activities, those who took advantage of free time reported increased “life satisfaction” and had more positive relationships and support networks in their life. Other studies have shown that relaxing lowers blood pressure, decreased stress, and even has helped trim some waistlines – and who doesn’t like that after eating a lot at a picnic!
As a manager, you set the tone for Gen Y’s work discipline. Employees look to you regarding how frequent you e-mail and how quickly you respond to inquiries during the work week. Gen Y especially takes notes on how you respond over weekends and during holidays, allowing those cues to determine how much they work instead of setting their own schedule.
I’m not saying that Gen Y shouldn’t pay their dues to make it in the workforce, but I am saying that everyone can set aside e-mail for a few days and enjoy an extended weekend. Happy Fourth of July everyone!
About the Author
Amy Liz Martin is a PR professional whose work centers on social media, media relations, corporate relations, publicity and cause-related PR campaigns. Amy was a fundraiser and event communications chair for the American Cancer Society, ran small development and communications campaigns for the International Center for Journalists, and led social media publicity efforts for artists at EMI CMG Label Group. She earned her master's degree in mass communications/public relations at Louisiana State University and is a member of the Public Relations Society of America.
