I recently headed south to West Virginia for a week with my family. Mountains, a river, some coffee, and a porch – that pretty much sums up my vacation! I was even forced to give up social media for a couple of days, as the internet was not working properly. Though I ensured Walrath’s presence online didn’t go totally dead while I was away, I was completely out of my usual element at the office and actually took a breather.
But now, I’m back. I’m energized, excited, and motivated. I have a number of ideas that I’m excited to act on, I am glad to be back around my co-workers, and I am happy to have my Dunkin’ coffee again. I personally know several who cannot even fathom the idea of stepping away from it all for just one minute, but the benefits of a short break from the usual can make a huge difference in everything from appreciating your home to your daily stop at the bagel shop. I had a few projects brewing just days before my vacation, and now that I’m back I’m excited to get to work.
So many of us overwork ourselves and take a day here and there to re-energize and refocus. Sometimes, that single day will do the trick; however, a lengthier break in a place that’s totally removed from your usual work and home atmosphere can result in a complete revival of spirits! When the time comes to plan your next vacation, go somewhere new, or a place that will permit you to live only in the opposite way you do normally. Try new things like hobbies, or food. Never owned a nice camera, but always wanted to dive in to photography? Buy a camera and focus on taking photos throughout your entire break. Never have time to read? Now’s the time to pick up a new book. Live in the city? Head to the beach or the mountains, build a campfire, and ditch those dress pants for some yoga pants instead. Let work and home drift from your mind for just a few days, and rest your body, too. When you return to “normal” life, you’ll appreciate it much, much more.
Are you ready for a vacation now?