Editor’s Note: The monthly “Elevate Well-Being” blog series shares thoughts and reflections of Clemson Well-Being Council members and University faculty and staff. Our June 2025 blog is courtesy of the University’s chief strategy officer, Robert Donato.
In the fast-paced world of higher education, business and leadership, we often wear our packed schedules and long hours as a badge of honor. We push through back-to-back meetings, strategize late into the night and tell ourselves we’ll “take a break when things slow down.” But here’s the reality — things never slow down. If we don’t intentionally pause, prioritize rest and build well-being into our schedules, we risk burnout, diminished creativity, and ultimately, decreased productivity.
At Clemson, we talk a lot about performance — whether it’s in the classroom, on the field or in the boardroom. Optimal performance isn’t just about effort; it’s about sustainability. The best athletes understand recovery is just as important as training. The same principle applies to leadership and professional success. If we don’t step away to recharge, reflect and recover, we’re not operating at our full potential.
Vacation is Not a Luxury — It’s a Strategic Advantage. Many companies insist on periodic breaks and “force” vacation time through “use it or lose it” PTO policies and some with more structured mandatory time off.
Research consistently shows taking time off leads to increased productivity, improved decision-making and higher job satisfaction. Leaders who model the importance of unplugging set the tone for a culture of well-being — one where people feel empowered to bring their best selves to work because they know their health and happiness matter.
Yet, statistics tell us many professionals, including those in higher education, don’t take full advantage of their vacation time. The reasons vary — fear of falling behind, a culture that rewards being busy, or even a sense of guilt. But the truth is, taking vacation isn’t just about relaxation; it’s about returning with renewed energy, fresh ideas and a clearer perspective.
When I step away from my desk — whether it’s to spend time with family, travel or simply unplug — I come back sharper, more focused and ready to tackle challenges with a fresh approach. I encourage each of you to do the same.
Scheduling your well-being practices like a meeting
Beyond vacation, well-being needs to be part of our daily routine, not an afterthought. That means scheduling it — literally putting it on the calendar as you would an important meeting.
- Start your day with intention – Whether it’s exercise, meditation or reading, carve out time before the day takes over.
- Take breaks to reset – A five-minute walk between meetings or stepping outside for fresh air can make a world of difference in focus and creativity.
- Honor your time off – When you’re on vacation, truly disconnect. Set boundaries. The work will be there when you return, but your well-being is what ensures you can continue doing that work at the highest level.
Leading by example
As leaders, the way we prioritize well-being sends a message. If we claim to value work-life balance but never take a break, we unintentionally create a culture where others feel they can’t either. When we step away with purpose, it gives others permission to do the same.
Clemson is built on a foundation of excellence — not just in academics and athletics, but in the way we care for our people. Let’s redefine success to include rest, recovery and balance. The best strategy for sustained high performance isn’t pushing harder — it’s knowing when to pause.
So, consider this: Schedule that vacation. Take your optional holiday. Take a deep breath. Step away when you need to. Your work, your leadership and your well-being will be better for it.