Many people, including myself, have difficulty leaving work and letting go to allow themselves to take a vacation. Many people I know are employed and have access to paid vacation time, but they don’t use it. It keeps on accruing. People who own a business or work for themselves in some capacity feel that their business will suffer if they take time off. We worry that we might fall behind or lose customers and clients to competitors who market 24/7, 365 days per year.
How many people take their computers with them on vacation? It’s hard to let go of it. While I am sure that many of us love what we do, it is clear that for many of them, the truth remains that they love their work. It is deeply satisfying and sometimes exciting. We aren’t willing to give up something we love, and we want to embrace the “unknown “… even for a brief time.”
Recently, however, I have realized the errors of my ways. My husband and I worked for three days on a week-long family vacation. Our kids sat in front of the television while we ate dinner. After adjusting to the new environment, taking in the beauty and peace of the surrounding, I noticed a shift within me. It was easier to be grateful, which allowed me to enjoy the true benefits of vacation.
Here are ten reasons to take a vacation. And how to approach it when you do so, in order that it will improve your life and business.
1. A new way of seeing life. No longer are you surrounded by the familiar. It can take some time to “get your bearings” in a new place, especially if it is unfamiliar. This forces you to let go of the past and allow life to flow. This is a good thing. Let life lead you on an adventure. This allows us to let go of our control and loosen our grip on what “should” happen. We can see things from a new perspective, including our relationships, work, and ourselves. We are open to new ideas and may even be innovative. You might come back with an original solution to a problem or a novel approach to marketing. You can also bring a notebook or a journal with you to record some new ideas. These ideas will be fleshed out once you return.
2. Breaking down the routine. Habits are a part of our nature. It is easy to fall into a routine. It’s easy to get used to being in the exact same house, following the same route from work, grocery shopping, school and performing the same tasks. Although it may seem boring, it is familiar. It can lead to complacency in relationships and work, as we continue doing the same thing every time. It is healthy to let go of that habit once in a while, and try something different. Breaking from your routine can lead to amazing new things. Your life will be so much more if you try something new.
3. Connecting with your spouse, children, family, friends, and yourself. You have the chance to get to know your family and friends better, even if you go alone. We have responsibilities, duties and lives that are so busy, especially in our families, that we don’t have time to “see” others around us. On vacation, however, we might be surprised at how resourceful or creative our spouse is. Or how happy and full we are. Now we have the chance to enjoy and observe. It is also possible to have a conversation, resolve problems and clear the air. Although this can seem complicated, if we approach these situations with love, we will find a deeper, more fulfilling, and richer relationship.
4. Restoring your mind and body. Relaxing on vacation is a great way to relax and unwind. Our bodies are hardworking and provide us with great service. It helps us share our unique talents with the world. Your body will last longer and be more successful if you take good care of it. Deep relaxation can be a powerful healing force. It improves the immune system and acts as a healing balm for every cell and function in our bodies. You should plan your vacation to allow for deep relaxation.
5. Hear another voice than the ego. Sometimes we get too wrapped up in our own way of doing things. Because we’ve done it this way for so many years, it is our preferred way of doing things. Vacation allows us to relax and hear other ideas and possibilities. These new ideas can often make a huge difference in our lives and business.
6. Feeling timelessness. You can experience a sense timelessness when you are on vacation, especially if you resist the temptation of booking every minute of your day on activities or tours. It is easy to get caught up in the passing of time. How many times do you look at your clock, phone, or watch and realize that you have to rush to get somewhere. Aren’t these exhausting and stressful? Vacation is your chance for you to forget about the clock and to realize that there’s more to life than just following it. It is amazing how enjoyable a day or evening can be when you are living in the moment.
7. Discovering skills you never knew you had. Who would have thought I could learn windsurfing at such a young age and do it very well? My daughter wanted to learn windsurfing and so I joined her. Are you a natural talent, such as rock climbing, sailing or kayaking? Or can you speak a foreign language? You won’t know until you try. You have the perfect opportunity to do this with vacations. You will feel good about yourself for trying. And who knows, you might discover a passion that lasts a lifetime!
8. Connecting to Nature. Connecting with Nature. The same life force that created and sustained you also creates and sustains water, trees, flowers and mountains. Tagore’s Indian poet Tagore has a favorite poem that I love. It says, “The same stream that runs through the universe runs through my veins day and night and dances in rhythmic measure…It’s the same life that shoots joy through the dust into endless blades of grass and bursts into tumultuous waves flowers.” You can meditate on this poem while you’re out in the natural world for a few moments. Soon you will realize that the power of all things is right behind you and supporting you.
9. Enjoy. It’s possible that you have chosen a vacation that you enjoy. Even though things happen on vacation, sometimes they are a good thing. The best motivator for starting a vacation is the chance to have fun and enjoy it. Playing can increase our creativity. Creativity is vital to our work and our relationships. Joy is a positive energy that boosts your immune system, improves relationships and attracts more goodness into your life. Play. Enjoy the moment. Take it all in. It’s a great feeling to celebrate!
10. Enhancing Gratitude. Last but not least, vacations make gratitude easier. Daily gratitude can make a big difference in your life. It’s easier to express gratitude and feel free from the daily grind when we’re not occupied with our daily chores. It’s easier to appreciate the beauty and time we share with family and friends, as well as the peace that we feel. You will be amazed at how many things there are to be grateful for. Make it fun.
You can probably think of more reasons to go on vacation. What are you waiting to do? Make a plan and get on your way! You will be happier, more joyful, and more creative in your return trip.