You’ve made it! 2017 is almost done and although you might feel a little war worn and weary (no doubt!), it’s so exciting to think about all the challenges and possibilities that 2018 may have in stall.
Thing is, in our fast-paced world taking time to recharge is more important than ever. As a wise man once said, “If you don’t take time to recharge, then you’ll never have time to renew.”
So, are you ready for the great escape? You probably can’t wait to get away from it all, right? But how can you make the most of your upcoming free days? Truth is, vacation is a mindset y’all! Remember, just because work stops doesn’t mean that you’ll feel refreshed and replenished come 2018. But, if you play it right, a half day spent in your backyard with a pile of magazines can be just as restorative as a week in Spain.
Use these strategies to make your December holiday last well into the New Year:
Determine what kind of vacation fuels your tank. Do you want to visit family and friends, or do you want to get away from it all? Or, do you simply want to be at home and read through a pile of books? You could easily split your vacation in two parts if you want to be both active and restful. Too often we take time off but return to work feeling drained because our vacation didn’t meet our needs.
Plan it. Research shows that 99% of people say the happiest vacations are planned more than a month in advance. And yes, this counts for “staycations” as well. Plan it, so that you have a chance to look forward to it.
Detox from your devices. So, you were thinking of packing your Kindle, iPad and iPhone for your breakaway? Without devices distracting you it will be easier to tune into those “can’t-miss moments” like a beautiful sunset or the sound of the ocean.
Be sure to practise mindfulness. Taking a moment to pause and tune into your surroundings will help you to truly appreciate and savour your getaway.
Collect memories. Research recommend actively collecting memories that can easily be recalled to boost vacation happiness. Take plenty of pics and post them on Instagram, make a playlist, to savour those moments well into 2018. Also use a scent that you don’t normally use that is unique to your holiday, ready to dip into whenever you need a boost of happiness.
Less is more, don’t overdo it. Don’t fill your break with back-to-back parties and meet-ups leaving you more exhausted than ever.
Give back. Do something for someone less fortunate than yourself.
Make your “re-entry” as humane as possible. Leave your home clean with fresh sheets on the bed, laundry done and have something in your freezer, so you don’t have to worry about grocery shopping.
So, it’s time to think hard about the things that bring you refreshment and replenish your resources, do more of that… you deserve every minute of it.
Happy getaway everyone!
Source: www.wrike.com, trave.allwomanstalk.com, www.upromise.com, www.businessinsider.com, www.forbes.com, wwww.yesandyes.org, www.themuse.com, www.psychologytoday.com, www.self.com, www.1.cbn.com, businesstech.co.za, www.lifeoptimizer.org, greatest.com, www.lonelyplanet.com, www.independentraveler.com, psychcentral.com, www.entrepreneur.com, www.eatsleepbe.com, www.inc.com, www.creativeducation.com.co.uk
