It’s summertime!

Kids are eagerly anticipating time away from school. Their plans…do nothing! Sleep-in, be with friends, play, explore, think about their future, and get ready for a new school year.

It comes natural to them.

How about you?

Are you one of those hard working individuals that think any time you take away from your business is a luxury you cannot afford? Think again. Time to relax, reflect, and refresh is critical to your performance, and your performance is critical to your success.

Like so many driven professionals, you may need to justify your vacation time or even a work day of less than 10 hours. If so, then here are your…

5 reasons to take a vacation from your business:

Reflection time opens your mind to a clear vision.

A clear vision is critical to your success. You must have a target to know if you hit the bullseye.  It is also critical to retaining employees and clients. People want to know where you are going before they decide to follow you.

Down time saves time.

You are more likely to get where you are going faster if you know where you are going and how you are going to get there. Time away allows you time to plan.

Time away restores your energy.

Being at your best is impossible if you are running on “low”. You need a “fill up” now and then.

Time with friends and family builds strong, lasting relationships.

Strong lasting relationships are not only critical to a joyful life; they provide you the support you need to push through challenging days and difficult tasks. They sustain you when the going gets tough.

Time to renew is your responsibility.

Think of it as “putting on your own mask first.” You are no good to anyone or anything if you do not take the time that is needed to be your best.

So, this summer make time for “me time”. Put boundaries on your work day. Disconnect from your office. Turn off your alarm clock. Shut down your e-mail. Schedule consecutive days off (I recommend no less than 2 weeks!) and make them count.

Be careful not to fill all of this time with activities. Rest and relaxation are not easy when you are standing in line at an entertainment park! Grab a rocking chair and just rock. Read a book on any subject but work. Lie in the sun (with plenty of sunscreen). Take a hike along a stream and sit down to watch the water go by. Lie on your back and watch the stars.  Remember, these are the days of your life. There is not a special award for filling them with work.