Can work/business and life be combined?

Recently, I have been thinking about this a lot.  I see lots on business owners who feel it’s either or…”I’m on vacation, and I shouldn’t do ANY work.”  OR “I can’t leave the office because I have to be HERE.”  What I have learned over a period of years is that you can find middle ground.  Yes, I think that sometimes (like we recommend for our Tuscany retreats) is that you totally unplug from the office.  But the reality is, that when you join us in Tuscany we WILL be talking about your business but in a fantastic setting, with lots of downtime to contemplate your discoveries, and to rejuvenate.  As an example, I am heading to Park City, UT for our annual summer vacation.  This year, we will be out there for over 3 weeks.  We go skiing in January in Utah as well, and that generally is more of an unplugging.  I have been taking this time in the summer (2 years ago we drove and I was gone 5 weeks!) for a number of years.  Having extended time with my children and living in the mountains has been a dream that has become a reality. I actually enjoy the mix of business and pleasure.  I take a little time to check in most days, but some days I completely unplug.  Most years (although not this year), I schedule client conference calls and rent some executive office space from which I can see the mountains while I work!  Why not combine the two?  I love my work, and I love being away from Washington, DC in the beautiful mountains having a more flexible & healthy schedule.  So, take a moment to think about the place that you most enjoy being…the beach, a cottage by a lake in Maine, the mountains, maybe even overseas.  Why not combine the two to create a rich work and personal life.  Sure, it takes some planning and good technology but it’s doable! And it doesn’t have to be the summer.  It could be living part time in a warmer climate during the winter, or spending the Spring somewhere beautiful.  Good luck planning a beautiful “fusion” of life and work!