In the Inside Track, General Counsels across CEE share the nuances of their roles, challenges, and strategies for success. As summer is a time to unwind, we asked: With summer here, what is your one favorite yearly activity to disconnect and switch off?
Iryna Musiychuk, Head of Legal Department, McDonald’s Poland: Summer holds a special place in my heart, and I always see it as a time to relax. Even a short break during this sunny season brings so much joy and rejuvenation, especially with the refreshing sea breeze. After the pressure of legal work, I’ve found that surfing and other water sports are the perfect way to unwind. I’ve come to realize the importance of taking regular breaks, no matter the time of year. It’s better than waiting for summer to arrive and then trying to recover from a workload without proper rest. While I used to travel to other countries, now that I work in Poland, I’m looking forward to spending my vacation in my homeland, Ukraine.
These warm summer days provide the perfect opportunity for leisurely evening strolls and enjoyable meals with loved ones. Regrettably, in Ukraine, these simple moments have become rare relics of pre-war times. Instead, the reality for my fellow citizens is filled with curfews, ongoing air raids, and explosions. I hope a peaceful life will come back, and those Russians responsible for war crimes will be held accountable and duly punished for the immense suffering they have inflicted upon Ukraine and other nations worldwide.
Nada Matusikova, Co-Head of Legal, RWS Group: Being almost a workaholic (not by choice), I cannot wait for the summer holiday season. Over the years, I discovered my best model of holiday. A proper time for relaxing must be at least two weeks in a row. I usually take one week in July and one in August to break the summer with the kids. But if you have the luxury, always take the full fortnight.
I love the combination of adventure and leisure. For the first week, I opt for some physically demanding activities that require your full focus. This is very important to your absolute switch off from your work and/or family duties. I can recommend mountain climbing, hiking, or nature exploration. After you have forgotten all about your pending tasks or overflowing mailbox, you are finally ready to fully relax. Choose one to your liking – whether a proper beach holiday, a spa treatment, or a calming stay in the countryside. Do enjoy what you cannot normally indulge in while working – read, meditate, exercise, dance, or just sleep.
This article was originally published in Issue 11.7 of the CEE Legal Matters Magazine. If you would like to receive a hard copy of the magazine, you can subscribe here.