Take A Vacation, Get Ahead
In most other western countries of the world, the idea of taking vacations and holidays is ingrained as part of the culture. Going “on holiday” is seen as beneficial and normal behavior. Not so in the United States.
Therefore, if you have that work ethic that finds you bragging about how little vacation you took last year…this list is for you. Here are 10 reasons you should take a break this year.
(1) You really could use the rest
You’ve forgotten that you have to replenish and rejuvenate if you want to continue at this pace. And occasionally knocking off work early is NOT the answer. You need a little time to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit…right?
(2) In these tougher times, you need new perspective on the same old stuff you’ve been doing
It’s hard to see things different if you’re not willing to change your vantage point. And simply, you have to get away, -put some distance between yourself and your business, in order to see things differently. It’s the first step toward new ideas to improve your business.
(3) You keep saying the family is a priority
I’ve coached all kinds of leaders who have family at the top of their priority list, but who can’t seem to devote any extended time to enjoying those relationships. You often have to take your family away so they can be the center of your attention, and you, theirs.
(4) Your employees need a good role model to follow
Don’t you need your staff firing on all cylinders, able to respond well to what arises, and feeling good about the balance between their work time and their personal / family time? Show them how time off is not only a good idea, it’s essential to the kind of productivity you’re asking for.
(5) Visiting places on the internet is NOT the same as being there in person
Don’t confuse reading about the Bahamas with the experience of being there. Also, don’t take too much comfort with the idea that you could go there anytime you want. Being there is a whole lot better.
(6) Your business needs to learn to run smoothly when you’re not there
If your people can’t handle a week or more of you being gone, your work is cut out for you. Free yourself up to not only take a vacation, but to lead your business and your industry by letting go of all those work activities that really should or could be done by your capable employees. They will appreciate the faith you have in their abilities. And you’ll appreciate your new partners in the business.
(If you are a solopreneur, automate what needs to run daily, and get used to the idea of not being 110% available 52 weeks of every year…for your health’s sake).
(7) As a leader, you’re also in the memory-making business
What kind of memories do you want to be making for yourself or for your family? When you’re talking with your child ten years from now, how do you hope to complete this question: “Remember the time when we____________?” Most people have fond memories that involve travel, rest, enjoyment…vacation.
I challenge you to create some memorable experiences, and get yourself refreshed to make the rest of 2010 stellar.
(This post was previously published in the July 2010 issue of Business Leader http://www.businessleader.bz/ )
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Written by Tom Plake
Topics: Sustain Yourself