As I mentioned in an earlier post, my husband and I went on vacation to the Cape last week. We had been looking forward to the trip since last August, and we had a great time.
Throughout the year, work keeps both my husband and me quite busy. In fact, it sometimes feels as if we are passing ships throughout the week as we dash from one job or responsibility to the next.
Needless to say, we were both in need of this vacation very much. We needed time to step away from the constant pressures of work, allow email to go on answered, and simply play.
Now I will be the first to admit that it is much easier to talk big – “I won’t feel the need to work at all!” (Said Paula nor Ryan ever…) It’s difficult to stop a habit that dominates our lives for the remaining 360 days of the year. Nevertheless, we tried. And in just those few days, I felt more relaxed, centered, and calm.
I can’t stress enough the importance of taking time for vacation. You don’t have to travel to some far away destination (the Cape is less than a two hours from our house). Heck, you can even do a stay-cation and act like a tourist in your own town. The most important thing is to take time – significant time, if possible – and separate yourself from the everyday grind.
Press the restart button, and let yourself to refresh. (You know how your computer works so much better when you press restart? It’s the same concept here).
Allow yourself to enjoy time with those you love. Allow yourself time to laugh, to try something new, and to play. (Yes adults can play too!) Not only does this put you in a healthier mindset, but you also return to work rejuvenated. You are ready to take on those big projects that seemed insurmountable the week before. You come back with new a perspective, a positive attitude, and a feeling of confidence: “I can do this!”
So do yourself a favor – as soon as you can, set aside some time. Step away from your work and spend time with your family, your friends, or yourself. Take that vacation. Take time to recharge. And come back healthier, happier, and ready to take on the world.
Have you taken a vacation recently? Do you have any upcoming trips planned? What do you do to recharge? Let me know below!