Concentration and focused work are challenges that span across all industries and positions. Digital distractions, conversations with coworkers, and wandering minds can make just 20 minutes of uninterrupted work a common obstacle.
Knowing the importance of unplugging and its impact on wellness, KHM Travel Group has found a new opportunity for its Executive Team to take scheduled time away from the office to reflect and recharge. Rick Zimmerman was the first to take his sabbatical in late December and returned with clarity and a renewed sense of identity.
“A sabbatical is all about mental health. For mine, I had many goals I wanted to define and clear up. That’s mental health for me. Long-term planning for KHM Travel Group and putting the puzzle pieces together of where everyone fits in our organization,” said Rick.
While clarity and confidence were essential pieces of his four-week sabbatical, Rick felt that prayer was the central component to the success of his time away. Starting every morning with gratitude as he does on his typical workdays, Rick was able to spend more time reflecting. He especially connected with Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
From his contemplation, what was abundantly clear was that KHM Travel Group is an organization with heart. Our teams are fully engaged and care about what they are doing – about the people around them and our independent travel agents. The People First approach is what has got us where we are and will continue as we grow.
The sabbatical went quickly for Rick, with clarity coming in the first week. During his time away, he completed everything he wanted to accomplish and even lost track of the days, something he said he hoped would happen as a signal that he was fully committed to the process.
While he recognizes that not every person can take an extended sabbatical, he encourages everyone to remember to disconnect from work.
“There’s something about not having all those emails and texts or having to scan social media platforms. It’s so much easier to get things done. When you get opportunities to unplug and focus on what you’re doing, do that. Even if it’s just an hour,” he suggests.
In addition to planning his vision for KHM Travel Group, Rick’s time also focused on his personal goals for giving back, including launching his own foundation next year.
“How can I do something today to ensure that KHM Travel Group upholds the vision and Core Values in the years to come. This is a gift we have been given in this organization–that it is built on a solid vision, mission, and Core Values. And that extends to our agents and suppliers. They know our values and act according to them. Our unique identity is the most important thing. That’s what I really care about. Down deep we know who we are and we get to live it every day at KHM Travel Group.”
Thanks to his sabbatical, Rick feels a renewed sense of clarity and direction for the future, knowing the exciting path KHM Travel Group is set to take for the next 100 years of empowering travel agents.
“We need to share where we’re going. And together, we’re ready for what comes next.”
For more about KHM Travel Group’s leadership team, visit our About page. If you’re ready to learn how becoming a travel agent can connect you with a team dedicated to your success, contact us today at 888-611-1220.
