10 Reasons Why You Should Take A Vacation This Year
Vacation time is a precious commodity for most of us, but it shouldn’t be squandered away. Make that vacation time work for you with weekend getaways and international adventures in which you can spend time creating new memories and gaining new experiences. Whether you opt for one yearly trip or several smaller trips throughout the year, the benefits of traveling will seep into every aspect of your life.
1. Power Off
These days it is harder to power down and switch off than ever, but going on vacation can help you step away from your computer and disconnect from your phone. Though you may be tempted to Instagram your entire vacation, let me suggest that you avoid spending too much time on social media since your vacation time is so precious.
2. Feel Refreshed
Responsibilities at home, work, and in life can really wear you down, but taking at least one yearly vacation can help you feel restored when you return home. After all, our personal wellness should be at the top of our priority list.
3. Gain Perspective
Whether traveling within the US or internationally, you can gain a bit of insight into how other people live in a different part of the country or a different country altogether. If you want to learn more about different societies, volunteering abroad opportunities, such as Workaway, abound.
4. Develop Your Hobbies
What is your hobby and when was the last time you focused solely on it for a day or more? Our busy lives often get in the way of practicing something we enjoy, but traveling can provide the needed time and creative space to do just this. For example, if you love photography, you could spend your vacation photographing the sights or even taking a workshop. If cooking is your passion, how about a cooking class or two where you can learn about new dishes and add a few new recipes to your repertoire.
5. Learn New Skills
Traveling is a great time to invest in yourself by learning a new skill. You’ll finally find you have time to read that book that has been collecting dust on your shelf or enroll in a workshop you’ve been putting off. Even taking an afternoon writing course could lead to new knowledge and potentially a new hobby or side hustle.
Related: 5 Money Saving Tips For Planning A Last Minute Vacation
6. Learn About Yourself
When traveling, especially in a foreign country, you must often rely on yourself to navigate the public transportation, communicate in a foreign language, read a map, and more. These simple tasks may not seem so simple in a different country, but in these moments, you are truly learning your capabilities. When ordering a plate of steamed dumplings in Chinese — and being understood — the thrill is so exciting that you are sure not to easily forget it.
7. To Connect
Being off of work and leaving the electronics behind (at least for most of the day) can provide ample time to connect with your spouse and children. We are often so busy going, going, going all day that having a week or more off is a wonderful time to reconnect with family members and even learn new things about them. Building your relationships during a vacation is one of the most important reasons for at least one yearly vacation.
8. Learn About Others
Taking the time to travel to a foreign country each year can help you to understand different cultures, religions, and ways of life that you might not normally be exposed to on a day-to-day basis. Acceptance and understanding is key in this day and age.
9. Take Time For Yourself
Vacation is such a great time to pamper yourself. Whether you choose to get a much-needed massage, work out every day, enjoy an afternoon shopping, or simply relax at the beach, spending some serious time treating yourself will help you feel your best when you return home.
10. Gain New Experiences
Seeing the Great Wall of China for the first time or marveling at the impressive architecture of the Roman Coliseum and Forum are worth making time for. These and other unforgettable experiences can be had both near and far from home, but new experiences need to be sought out. Don’t put off doing the things you’ve always wanted to do until you retire; now is the best time to start checking off your bucket list.
Related: How To Pack Bras and Save Space In Your Suitcase
I’ve committed to taking at least one yearly vacation, will you?
