Ponderings (July 2006) - “VACATION”

According to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary …

Vacation is “a respite or a time of respite from something; a scheduled period during which activity is suspended; a period of exemption from work; a period spent away from home or business in travel or recreation”

Sharing my thoughts …

It’s that time of year when our thoughts turn to vacation.  Vacations are vital to keeping you energized and creative.  A “real” vacation, as defined above, is one in which you “unplug” both figuratively and literally.  Leave your laptop, PDA and cell phone behind and don’t check your emails and voice mails.  Suspend your work activity!  Also, if you can do it, take a 2 - 4 week vacation at least once every few years.  I know this is hard for some of you; but, give it try.  If you allow yourself the experience of a “real” vacation you will return refreshed, re-energized and ready to go back to work.  Wishing you a wonderfully rejuvenating vacation for 2006!

Questions to ponder …

1. When and where is your next vacation?
2. When is the last time you took a 2 – 4 week vacation?
3. How often do you take your work with you on vacation?
4. What is your energy level when you return from vacation?
5. Think back to your greatest vacation.  What made it great?
6. When was the last time you traveled somewhere you’ve never been?
7. Where would you go and what would you do if you had a 3 week vacation?
8. Do you treat your vacations as a priority?  How far ahead do you plan them?
9. Once vacation begins, how long does it usually take you to unwind and relax?
10. When going on vacation, what can you do to ensure you leave your work at the office?

Related quotes …

Every man who possibly can should force himself to a holiday of a full month in a year, whether he feels like taking it or not.  [William James]

A vacation is what you take when you can no longer take what you've been taking.  [Earl Wilson]

A vacation is over when you begin to yearn for your work.  [Morris Fishbein]

Vacation used to be a luxury, however, in today's world, it has become a necessity.  [Anonymous]

On vacation, I totally unplug.  I don't bring a laptop with me!  [Will Wright]