Recover on purpose: the holiday matrix

What if your next holiday wasn't simply time away from work — but an opportunity to reconnect with what matters?In this solo episode, Ross explores why recovery is much more than rest. Drawing on behavioural science, the Job Demands-Resources Model and research into leisure time recovery, he shares a fresh perspective on why holidays can help us rebuild one of our most important leadership capacities: our psychological flexibility.Ross introduces the holiday matrix—a simple coaching tool to help you recover with intention rather than drift through your break on autopilot.Whether you're travelling abroad, enjoying a staycation or simply taking a few days away from work, this episode offers practical ideas to help you return feeling more present, curious and connected.In this episode, Ross explores:Why leaders can become less psychologically flexible when they're under sustained pressure or exhaustedWhat the Job Demands-Resources Model tells us about recoveryThe four key ingredients of leisure time recovery:Psychological detachmentRelaxationMasteryControlWhy curiosity might be one of the first signs that you're genuinely switching offHow to use the Holiday Matrix to recover on purposeSimple daily practices to help you reconnect with what mattersThree invitations for your next holiday✔ Create a simple ritual that marks the beginning of your break.✔ Take one photograph each day of something you only noticed because you slowed down.✔ Choose a song that becomes the soundtrack to your holiday—and let it remind you how you want to show up during this precious time.Reflection questionWhich side of the Matrix deserves more of your attention and energy on this holiday?Resources mentionedJob Demands-Resources ModelLeisure Time Recovery research (including the work of Sabine Sonnentag and colleagues)Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkPeople Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Download the holiday matrix hereHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky