It’s summer and people are taking time off. Take some time off? What is that?
If you have to ask then it has been too long for you!
Taking time off can increase your productivity and clear your head. It is not for lazy people or well off individuals but for all people, regardless of the type of work they do or how they spend their days. In fact taking time off from your job to relax and refresh and leaving the daily grind and work pressures behind is an essential element of health and well-being. We have all heard the expression, “Taking time to recharge your batteries.” This should be taken to heart instead of being ignored!
If sunny skies and the lure of the beach does not entice you to want to take a few days off and you would rather roll up your sleeves, turn up the AC in the office and sit back down in front of your computer then maybe it has been too long since you said “so long” to your work responsibilities.
Isn’t it about time you started taking care of this often neglected aspect of health and wellness? Rest and relaxation has become a much maligned activity which is a shame.
Perhaps you are one of those people who shun time off because you think it makes you look like a slacker? This is a rather large group you are in that is growing all of the time.
If you think vacations are only for those looking for life balance or for those with the luxury of stepping away from their desks, then think again. Everyone, regardless of the kind of occupation they are in needs time to refuel, recharge and unclutter their minds.
Working too much and too long without a break can actually contribute to lower productivity levels, less job satisfaction, and a loss of effectiveness at work. It can also lead to unhappiness and total life burnout! And of course health problems such as high blood pressure and heart issues.
If you have goals and want to achieve them then you need to learn when to turn off your computer and cell phone and fall off the grid for a little while. Don’t worry, modern technology will still be there as you will return!
According to the Harris Interactive Research Group in 2007 there were 438 million vacation days that Americans did not take. This number is very high and in fact it is higher than any other industrialized country across the globe. It is not surprising therefore that the United States ranks number one when it comes to anxiety, depression, stress overload and other types of mental health problems.
To refuel and refresh your jets you need to schedule time off. You schedule other things such as meetings, exercise time, personal appointments, house cleaning and grocery shopping so why not time to rejuvenate, relax and not work?
Let others know that you will be taking time off and ask others to respect that. Whether you take three or four days off or a week or two you may be amazed at how others are willing to be understanding of your rejuvenation time.
Give it a try and see!
Becca
Alternative Health for Today 