
I am just returning from a brief break after a wonderfully blessed last four months of work. After months of travel and many very interesting firm retreats, training programs, conferences, workshops and other great client engagements, I stopped and rested with my family in that wonderful pastime known as the summer vacation. And the respite from my constantly wired work life was awesome!
At this juncture, I must admit that I stopped once per day and cleared emails on my BlackBerry (with the exception of one day, perhaps), but I avoided any work-related phone contact and kept my laptop shut most of my six days away. I read two great pleasure books, got sun, shopped, ate and slept more hours each night than I ever get in “real” life. Best of all, I didn’t think much about work and really enjoyed the ability to wipe my mind clean of the often all-consuming work that I love.
As I prepare to dive back into work on Thursday (strategically placed so my return is really just a short two days), my head is clearer and my vision has been broadened. I can once again see the forest of my life – because I stopped running crazily from tree-to-tree for even a few days. Taking a break from all things work has also deepened my friendships with my husband and children as we explored both new and familiar territory together again.
I am grateful to whoever invented the summer break and I thank God for the wonderful rest that I have been granted. What have you done to rest this summer? Please share your story or the benefits you’ve gained. I’m interested!
Gratefully,
Jen Wilson
www.convergencecoaching.com
Good for you Jen! I must admit that I haven't relaxed much yet but I will try and get some relaxation in soon. The best relaxation for me is spending the weekend at a hotel on the beach. I'm in Florida so my favorite destination spot is Cocoa Beach!
I am back 24 hours now and a little of my vacation pixie dust has begun to fade...but the memories of the fun we had won't! Thanks for your comment, Brooke!
I have a vacation scheduled for late summer. I'll see if I can find some pixie dust and mail it to you!
Barry -- do mail it me if you are able -- it's pretty elusive! I read The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo when I was out (among other things) -- great, definitely different book in case you're looking for a non-fiction diversion on your vacation!