"The overwhelming majority of respondents (82%) were sleeping for less than six hours a night. Of the respondents, 62% slept less than when at home. The survey findings were very clear: Business travellers experience high-stress levels which are exacerbated by a poor lifestyle when travelling," Leon Meyer, general manager at The Westin Cape Town.
Meyer suggests a few simple tips to keep your business travel stress levels in check:
Most of the stress related to travel comes from planning or a lack thereof. Start early to ensure there’s no last-minute rush to make bookings or secure flights. If you’re in a pinch for time, consider working through an agent. It’s useful to plan your meetings and events well in advance and to ensure you have enough time to travel to each venue.
It’s also important to schedule in some time to allow you to catch up on your admin and emails, or to take some time for yourself to kick back or explore the area. All this planning and preparation will leave you feeling on top of your trip’s details.
Sleep is one of the most important parts of one’s day, yet it is the first thing most business travellers skimp on. The World Sleep Society has found that there is a direct correlation between your sleep and your overall well-being, and it will leave you feeling mentally and physically rejuvenated for your busy day. Ensure you get your full quota of sleep – this includes booking at accommodation that prioritises quality beds and linen.
While the occasional takeaway might be fine to incorporate into your daily meal plan, it’s best to avoid fast food while on your business trip. You’ll want to be at your best during your meeting with clients, and that heavy, greasy meal will not only disrupt your sleep, it will also create sluggish thinking and more than likely increase your stress levels.
Ensure you have healthy meals and superfoods to give you a mental boost, alongside stress-busting options such as herbal tea.
You’re likely to have a busier than usual schedule during a business trip, but it’s vital to schedule in some time to stick to your regular exercise routine. Not only will exercise reduce stress levels, but it will also boost your mental performance and improve your sleep. Look to stay at hotels that offer gyms or spas, to help you unwind after a day of high-pressure meetings.
"Business travel can be extremely stressful, so it’s important to promote a good night’s sleep, a healthy diet and a consistent exercise regime. This is why The Westin has created an assortment of facilities and programmes to ensure that wellness remains at the heart of every guest experience, enabling them to rise refreshed and ready to tackle their business goals," says Meyer.
