Today's Articles (18/7/2025)
No, the best way to set your brain to holiday mode is by signing out of your Work Bag. Swapping the bag you take on your daily commute for a free-and-easy alternative is more effective as a psychological gear change than logging out of your emails.
But when you get home after work and you aren’t going back for a week or two, there is something very pleasing about marking that moment by throwing away leaky pens, marvelling at how you managed to accumulate 14 hairbands, and then shaking the bag over the bin and feeling disproportionately thrilled when a pound coin falls out.
Your “holiday” bag, whether you are home or away, sets the tone for how you spend your break. I switch to a bag that’s bigger than my work bag, because if I’m waiting for a bus or eating a sandwich I get to read my book rather than doing emails.
My dream handbag – well, apart from a Hermès Birkin – is a straw basket, which to me is the essence of summer. When I sling a basket bag over my shoulder, I swear my pulse rate slows. If I’m not working, I don’t want the rush-hour-tube energy of shiny hardware and a zip fastening, and the artisanal, pottering-about vibe of a basket is the perfect antidote. On holiday, I take a big one that maxes out the under-the-seat-in-front-of-you space on a plane, which has room for a swimsuit rolled up in a cotton towel, as well as a book.
Drowning in admin? 14 productivity hacks to regain control of your diary, inbox – and life
What is your energy going to be like that week? I think everybody should get into the habit of looking at their diary from an energy perspective and seeing if there is enough balance there.
Your brain is more for ideas and not storage.