Dictionaries define vacations as 1) a period of time devoted to pleasure, rest, or relaxation, especially one with pay granted to an employee, 2) a holiday, and 3) a fixed period of holidays, especially one during which a school, court, or business suspends activities.
What’s important is how YOU define your time off. I propose that in order to succeed, the body and mind need rest and relaxation to refuel. This is not a novel idea, but one to think about if you view vacations as frivolous or self-indulgent.
The benefits from vacations go much deeper than fun in the sun, good restaurants, entertainment, and shopping. Vacations give you the opportunity to “vacate” from routine and enter a new environment in mind and spirit to rejuvenate and gain a fresh perspective.
It is important to choose vacations wisely. When you need more stimulation and activity, choose a more active vacation. When rest and healing is necessary, opt for a more relaxing slower paced experience.
Remember that the distance and cost of the vacation need not be major factors. Traveling 20 miles or 2000 miles for a vacation can have the same positive results. It’s the quality of the vacation, the environment you choose, and the resolution to leave your cares and worries at home that determine your ability to relax, rejuvenate and revive your hopes and dreams.