3 Ridiculous Reasons For Not Taking Time Off

To remain constantly at work will diminish your judgement.
Leonardo Da Vinci

Last week I was interviewed by a NY Times writer for an article entitled, Keep Your Apple Picking Plans. The essence of the article was about why people keep or abandon plans for leisure time. They had actually interviewed some individuals about their plans a few months ago and followed up to see if they kept their plans. Some did while some didn't.

I don't think I have EVER heard someone say, "I wish I hadn't taken that time off." There are so many benefits to stepping away for even a short time, but too often we don't recognize the value until we have gotten way too stressed out. If you're one of those people who keeps putting off taking some time away, see if you are justifying it with one or more of these ridiculous reasons:

"I have too much to do."
And when will you NOT have so much work to be done? Organizations are operating at maximum capacity almost all the time. In fact, the heavier the workload, the more you need to take some time to rest and recover so you don't make mistakes or lose perspective.

"I can't afford it."
Trips by plane or a cruise might be out of the question at the moment, but what about an automobile trip to visit a friend a couple hours away. Hey, they might even let you spend the night in their spare room! Over the years I have found that it's not as much about the place as it is the people I am with, and the sense of connection and purpose I get when spending time with them.

"I'll do it later."
Failing to take time off for some much needed personal renewal doesn't just hurt you. You're limiting your ability to be your best at work, and I'll wager that your relationships are suffering as well. Don't you want to have the physical, mental, and emotional resources to be your best in all areas of your life?

If you're still resisting taking some time off, give me your reasons in the comments below or send me an email. I'd welcome the chance to help.