Vacation
Summer time equals vacation time. From the Latin/Greek root, meaning to empty; to have leisure. For most of us, vacation means a relaxing and enjoyable respite from the rigors of the daily grind.
Europe leads the world in providing the most employee paid vacation time, according to the Center For Economic Policy and Research. The CEPR also notes that of all the advanced countries only the US does not provide a legal guarantee of paid leave.
One in four Americans has no paid leave. In May, US Representative Alan Grayson introduced a bill in Congress mandating a minimum one week of paid leave for all US employees. No action was taken.
Vacations, “staycations” and time away from routine are essential to prevent burnout, relieve stress, recharge batteries, give renewed perspectives, and promote overall well-being.
Being self-employed, like many others, I have no paid vacation or paid sick leave. I once thought I could not afford to take a vacation. I now know better (see my blog on Burnout). When I ’empty’ my life of daily pressures and responsibilities and take a few days here and there, not only am I refreshed and recharged, but it goes a long way toward preventing the need to take sick days.
August is a traditional vacation month here and in Europe. Whenever you choose, plan carefully and wisely for a time off that suits you and your family, thereby maximizing the health benefits and contribution to a good life.