Just because you may be working from home doesn’t mean you don’t need to take time off. People often think “working from home” is actually less stressful, so I really don’t need time off.
You would be wrong—and this blog will prove it.
Our friends from Harvard Business Review say that the quality of your work deteriorates when you work too long and too hard without a break.
When you return from a vacation where you actually got away, you will have:
It’s the same with athletes and exercising. Do you know that when you work out, you tear your muscles? And when you rest, the muscles repair and recover to be stronger and better.
If the world’s greatest athletes just worked out 20 hours per day, everyday… they would NOT be great athletes for long. The rest and recovery allows the muscles to recover, heal, and grow stronger.
Four things for a better, more refreshing time away…
Plan it.
On the spot and spontaneous trips can be fun, but poorly planned trips lead to stress—and that is what you are trying to avoid.
Plus, planning your trip helps you to look forward to it and ultimately makes it more enjoyable. I learned this the hard way, early in our marriage. I surprised my wife with a trip and she started crying… and they weren’t tears of joy. She felt that she hadn’t been able to plan it, hadn’t had the chance to go swimsuit shopping with her friends, etc. Boy, did I learn a lesson between the differences of how ladies look forward to a vacation versus guys!
Change your scenery.
Vacations don’t have to be expensive and they don’t have to be far. But go on vacation at a spot that’s different than your usual surroundings. Rent an RV for a weekend, stay at a beach house, or a mountain lodge or go camping. Whatever you choose to do, do it somewhere different. Your mind will thank you for the respite and will recharge better.
Make time for outdoor activities.
Research says that spending time in nature will give you mental and physical benefits. So make sure you squeeze in some time outdoors, whether it’s a short sunbathing session, a walk, or a jog. Hiking is one of the least expensive and most fun things we do.
Unplug from digital experiences.
Did you know that two-thirds of Americans work during vacation? Don’t be part of this statistic! If you unplug, you will feel anxious for a couple of days, then incredibly relaxed after that.
So how about it? How about scheduling your next vacation right now!
Dr. Rob
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