There’s nothing like the normalcy of routine in life. I know, it becomes mundane and boring over time – but there sure is something to be said for routine. Nonetheless, as I come back from a wonderful summer filled with weekends at the beach and an August packed with vacation time – I, like many, long for the lazy days of summer when there was a reprieve from conference calls, deadlines, endless meetings, and… no worries about getting the kids out the door with completed homework, lunch, and whatever else their busy school days require.
Back in June, I read an article in The New York Times that inspired me:“Vacations Are Good for You, Medically Speaking,” (June 7, 2008). The article discusses much of what we unfortunately know. Americans are working longer hours, vacationing less, and bringing their work along with them on vacation. Despite being physically on vacation, employees answer email, call in to the office and voice mail, more often than not. And the result? In essence, all work and no play makes us tired, overworked, under-productive and plain old burnt out. Read Today’s Tip below to find out how you can change this unhealthy trend…
Guilty as Charged
Unfortunately, we just do not take enough time off – and I think those guilty as charged – feel it more in the Fall than perhaps any other time throughout the year. Why? Seasonal changes occur for a reason. Summer nights are warmer and longer, feeding our bodies more vitamin D well into the post-work hour time of day. We’re meant to be out more, socializing more, and more physically active. Fall brings that astute awareness of summer time gone. And wham! – some experience that as lost opportunity. Lost opportunity for family time, projects around the house, and whatever else is on your To-Do list.
Here’s what you can do to keep a bit of vacation throughout the year (get this, I’m telling you to add more things to your To Do List :
Get out that To Do list and schedule in the following:
- Your exercise
- Schedule in your monthly social activity with a close friend(s)
- Schedule in family movie night
- Schedule in your massage & book it NOW
- Cut out 5-15 minutes per day to reflect, set the alarm on your PDA to make sure it happens
- Schedule a day off for in between Thanksgiving and the winter holidays
- Fill in the blank ________________________________
- Sign up for a seminar or workshop to benefit YOU & the efforts you make to improve your performance & health
Tags: bonus, current, cutbacks, economy, family time, flexible, improvement, longer hours, routine, stress, summertime, vacation, work, work options, work/life balance, working