There’s no doubt that vacations provide a much-needed break from the everyday stresses of work and life. Studies have shown that vacations boost our physical health and well-being, strengthen our relationships and improve job performance. They can also offer a new perspective on our work and the world around us, which in turn, can help us deal with a return to the grind. While it’s impossible to avoid the occasional post-vacation blues, there are steps that we can take to make the transition back to reality a bit easier.
The word “vacation” has a variety of meanings, according to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary: a holiday; a period of time during which a university or law court suspends activities; a stretch of leisure time devoted to rest or pleasure. Vacation can also mean:
Whether you’re looking for a destination that’s packed with action, or the perfect place to relax and recharge, you can find it in the United States. From coastal towns to rugged mountain ranges, the country offers something for every traveler.
Before you leave for your trip, make sure to clean out the fridge of any food that will spoil; tidy up your living space; prepare assignments for your job so they don’t become due while you’re away; set an out-of-office message on your email; and recruit friends or coworkers to handle your responsibilities while you’re gone. This will help ensure that everything will be handled smoothly while you’re gone, and you can come back to a stress-free environment and a clear inbox.
It’s a good idea to try not to start any new projects in the days before your vacation that you won’t be able to finish before returning to work. This will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed when you return from your getaway, and will also keep you from procrastinating on important tasks that could cause trouble for the business. If you have to start a project, write down what stage it’s in and who’s responsible for each task, and consider asking your team members for help with any parts that are out of your league.
Exercise has been proven to improve sleep, reduce blood pressure and lower stress levels, so it’s a great way to beat the post-vacation blues. Try to get at least 20 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each day, or walk or swim a few times a week. Getting out in the fresh air and moving around will also give you a mood-boosting energy boost that’ll counteract the dread of returning to work.
Taking a vacation is a great way to recharge and enjoy all that the United States has to offer. From pristine beaches to historic towns, the country has an abundance of attractions that will delight your senses and inspire you. The most important thing to remember is that it doesn’t matter how long your vacation is, or how many adventures you have, it’s a wonderful feeling knowing that you can take a break from the shackles of daily life and enjoy yourself.
