LearnVest: How I Make My Living on 'Workations'

"Research has found that multi-cultural experiences and exotic surroundings generate more inspired and creative work. Workations decrease stress, which increases productivity and leads to fewer sick days. Studies show that people with high levels of stress spend nearly 50% more on health expenses. A study published in the Harvard Business Review found that when employees take just one day off per week, they report greater job satisfaction, more open communication with team members and better work-life balance, compared to regular employees." Once you pinpoint a good time, draft a plan to make your workation go as smoothly as possible. It should account for any necessary meetings, time zone differences and your ability to stay in touch. make sure that your destination has speedy Internet access. And coordinate with your office on which technologies you will need to use to keep in touch, like attending meetings via video (Google offers free video chat) and conducting conference calls on Skype. Be sure to spend evenings and time on the weekends away from the computer, so you actually get refreshed by your new surroundings. If you are in a different time zone, designate certain working hours each day -- and set boundaries with colleagues by letting them know when you will be online. Although workations can help you feel rejuvenated, it's also important to take full work-free vacations, which are essential for our minds and bodies to rest.