3 Tips for a Relaxing Vacation…for Everyone! 

Summer is finally here, bringing with it the promise of all its joys… but also all the unrealistic expectations that can come with it. Once the school and work years are over, the desire to truly “ make the most of ” this time of year can be felt on several levels : truly recharging your batteries, trying new activities, reconnecting with loved ones… And even as we head off on vacation hoping to unwind, we may find ourselves under more pressure than ever. The study IFOP is a good example of this : more than 70% of women (compared to 57% of men) return from vacation more tired than when they left. So, how can we really take the pressure off? and ensure a well-deserved rest for everyone? Marie Donzel, Associate Director at AlterNego, shares three key tips.

1. Try a Family “Unplug” Pact

Because some people’s (excessive) use of technology indirectly tires others out, make “disconnecting” the golden rule of your vacation. For the duration of your stay, set aside your screens, phone, and anything else that might affect those around you to create a bubble free of notifications.

However, if it’s not possible to completely disconnect from work, then agree on some common rules for living together. “When several people are trying to get away from work-related stress, everyone needs to agree to do their part,” says Marie Donzel. And without trying to control everything, you can make mutual commitments at different levels. “For example, by limiting email checks to specific times of the day to prevent the person trying to unwind from being overwhelmed by the other person’s stress,” recommends the equality expert. Whether among friends, as a couple, or with family: everyone should have the right to put work aside!

2. Negotiate household chores in advance

While mental load is a problem for everyone, some people may not realize that certain individuals bear a significantly heavier burden than others. And when it comes to women, 57% of them take on more household chores than their partners. “So, for a truly equitable division of labor and to prevent conflicts from escalating down the line, it’s all about timing, ” notes Marie Donzel. “Negotiate the division of tasks before conflicts erupt!”

To do this, everyone has their own method: “ Make a list of tasks and stick to it for the week, take turns being in charge every other day…, ” recommends the expert. The important thing is to find a system that works for everyone’s peace of mind. “ And do this ahead of time.”

3. Share inspiration in the Group

Contributing to a group isn’t just a matter of obligation. “It’s also an opportunity to breathe new life into your Group , ” says Marie Donzel. So share your must-read books, recommend your current favorite podcasts, and above all, have a conversation! “ I don’t recharge just for myself; I also have a duty to draw inspiration for others and for the sake of our relationship,” the expert explains. “And this need has a name: relational ecology.”

Popularized in the 1980s and 1990s by psychologist Jacques Salomé, this concept aims to improve communication by viewing every relationship as a space where each person shares responsibility for the bond. Now it’s your turn!