Traveling alone for a business trip has its perks. Apart from getting to do what you really want to do during off hours, you also get to focus on what you need to do at your destination. However, going on a business travel on your own can get lonely at times, and it can be hard to stay focused with all the distractions that a new place has to offer.
However, there are ways to stave off loneliness and boost productivity while on a business trip. All it takes is a bit of effort and being open to possibilities while you’re away, and making good use of your free time between meetings.
Here are a few tips on how to overcome loneliness and be more productive on a business trip.
Plan the contents of your suitcase
Apart from the necessary outfits, cosmetics, and gadgets, savvy professionals know that the key to making time away from home a bit better is to plan the contents of one’s suitcase. Some take along their favorite scented candle to make any hotel room smell a little like home, while others even go as far as bringing their own sheets and pillowcases to make a hotel bed feel a bit more like the one at home.
Schedule some time for pampering or self-care
If you can fit in a weekend before the beginning of a business trip, make use of the time wisely by scheduling a day for pampering or self-care. For instance, if you’re heading to Japan, you can try bathing in one of the many natural hot springs in the area called onsen.
Apart from being a soothing and relaxing experience, going to Japan’s famous hot springs is also a visual treat, as these natural wonders are found among mountains, along the seashore, and in valleys. You’ll find that you’re refreshed, relaxed, and ready to take on everything that comes along during the business trip.
Make a to-do list during long commutes
If you’ll be spending a lot of time on planes or trains before arriving at your destination, use your commuting time to plan your activities. Just bring a notebook and a pen to write down your to-do lists and goals for the business trip. Even better, you could start a bullet journal during your business trip, and you can check out Jobs & Hire’s tips on how to start one right here.
Communicate with your colleagues
Even though you’re on a business trip, you’ll still need to touch base with your co-workers. Set up an account on Slack so everyone on the team can get on the conversation. You can also document important parts of the business conference via Instagram or Snapchat and share them with your team.
