It’s that most wonderful time of the year, again! Holiday decorations sparkle, days and nights are crisp and invigorating. It’s the season when many of us take some much-needed time off to be with families and friends.

Job burnout has become a real threat to American workers, with almost 30 percent reporting feeling burned out according to a Spherion® workplace survey. One way to make sure you aren’t plagued by burnout is to take a break from your work routine. The trick is to make sure your time away is relaxing and rejuvenating—not full of stress over what may or may not be happening at work, or worry over the workload you’ll face when you return.

Here’s some advice on how to make the most of your holiday break—or any vacation time!

• Plan ahead.
  The best scenario is to schedule your time off well in advance. This will give you ample time to make preparations, both at work and at home.

• Prepare colleagues and coworkers.
  Alert key contacts within your organization and among any outside clients you work with on a regular basis. Provide ample notice of your vacation plans so they can tie up loose ends or ask any outstanding questions before you take off. Also, set up out-of-office alerts and change voicemail greetings to reflect your absence.

• Recruit a back-up.
  If possible, designate someone in your department to be your backup for any emergencies or to maintain key aspects of your job. Also ask this person to serve as your contact, giving them precise instructions as to how and when to contact you in your absence—ideally only for true emergencies. You may want to include their contact information on your voicemail and e-mail messages.

• Complete unfinished projects.
  There is nothing worse than leaving for vacation with an unfinished project waiting in the wings. Chances are you’ll think about it while you are away, and dread finishing it when you return. If you have projects or initiatives that are near completion and could be finished prior to your departure—then do so.

• Prepare to come back before you go.
  Write down any projects or priorities you will need to tackle when you return to work. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed after your time off, and you won’t have to think about them while you’re gone. Also, clean and organize your workspace before you leave to avoid returning to clutter. 

Making good preparations to be away will help ensure that your time off is stress-free and enjoyable. And, unless you are specifically required to do so, don’t be tempted to check e-mail or call the office. Instead, make the most of your time off to relax and refuel—and enjoy the holidays!