I recently read an article by Bob Brody, guest blogger for CNBC. His recent article, I'm Out of the Office, But Please Feel Free to Bother Me, made me laugh right out loud. Anyone that has ever taken a vacation and tried to unplug should read this article!

On a more serious note, his comments on being accessible at all times are disconcerting at best. While said with tongue in cheek, Mr. Brody states, "So just between us, I’m actually at your service. I may be out, but I’m never out out, if you catch my drift, because out is technically the new in. In fact, consider me the very embodiment of round-the-clock availability. Right now I’m checking my BlackBerry while water skiing."

Clearly this is not healthy and he alludes to the impact this has had on his personal relationships. It brought to mind a story one of my colleagues told me. When she was having her baby she told me that she was closing a deal while in the delivery room. Really? I'm all about customer service but this was even a bit out there for me.

A few years ago I served as the President of an international professional association. I was passionate beyond words about this organization but it was like having a second full time job. I knew I had problems disconnecting when I was reviewing bylaws and other operational policies on the boat while on vacation. Needless to say my husband was not happy (and that's putting it nicely).

When I returned from vacation my new mantra became "no bylaws on the boat." It was a rally cry of sorts for me to remember that it's not healthy to work around the clock and that it's important to have downtime each and every day.

So, next time you're tempted to put your family and your personal life last, remember my rallying cry: no bylaws on the boat!