Leaders struggle with 'Freizeitstress' during summer break

Many leaders experience 'Freizeitstress', the German term for stress caused by free time. When work ceases and holidays begin, an empty schedule can feel unsettling, turning leisure into a performance target to be optimized.

This challenge is particularly acute for leaders, whose work often provides structure, status, and a sense of utility. The absence of these demands can trigger an identity crisis, where busyness becomes a survival strategy. During holidays, instead of resting, individuals might plan work tasks or check emails, remaining psychologically tethered to their jobs.

The issue is significant because mere physical absence from work does not automatically ensure recovery if the mind remains alert and continuously available. While leaders may cite job demands, perfectionism and the fear of falling behind can also contribute to staying connected. This often results in returning from vacation without having truly rested.

True rest can initially feel uncomfortable as the mind adjusts to the lack of stimulation and validation. Leaders should resist the urge to fill every moment and allow for boredom. Instead of viewing leisure as a performance goal, it presents an opportunity to detach from work-defined roles and reconnect with the self overshadowed by professional demands.