When I was a kid, I spent most of my summers in Suffolk, Virginia visiting my grandparents and other relatives. I spent the summers working in the fields, helping with house chores, playing with other kids in the area and spending time with my family.  It was not the best nor the worst summer vacation.  I did not have the opportunity to have summer vacations that most kids enjoy today. The funny thing is that I did not spend my childhood wanting more; I guess it is very true you can’t miss what you never had.

It was not until my adult life and meeting my best friends that I realized I was missing out on seeing the world. I was shocked that at a young age they had traveled the world and experienced more than I had. But thanks to them and our 20 plus years as best friends, I now realize that vacations are a must.  It is very easy to become wrapped up in our lives that we forget about other things, places and people. I don’t regret the road I have traveled but I have realized a few things:

– Read about different places and create a “bucket list” of vacation destinations. It’s a great way to learn about different cultures.

– Expand your circle of friends.

– Taking a yearly vacation is a must! Finding time to relax and disconnect from day-to-day activities reduces stress.

– Even adults need play time.

– Sometimes you need a few vacations; one with friends, one with family and one by yourself.

– Vacations make family bonds stronger and are educational. They develop well-rounded kids.

– Create vacations based on income level. Not all vacations need to be extravagant and expensive.

– Vacations create a better work/life balance.

– You do not have to do a ton of things on vacation. Take the time re-energize.

We owe it to ourselves to take a vacation! I often hear people make tons of excuses about why they can’t take a vacation (and most of the time it’s about work). This may seem harsh but I tell them, “If you passed away tomorrow, your boss would cry, send flowers and a card, and then find your replacement.”  We have to invest in our mental health and not leave it up to others. If you do one thing in 2014, take a vacation and enjoy all that life has to offer. It will make YOU a better YOU!!

A vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it in.  ~ Robert Orben