When I made the decision to become debt-free, I had to hit the pause button on taking weekend trips and yearly vacations. But now I feel it’s time to reward myself a little with a much-needed break.
There are so many excuses not to travel – not enough time, not enough money, fear of the unknown, the list goes on.
The reasons why we can’t take a break to travel, often outweigh the reasons why we should. Below are 5 reasons why you need to ignore all your excuses, take a break from work and take that weekend trip anyway.
1. You Work Hard to Play Hard
Two years ago, I worked so much I literally didn’t have time to spend the money I made. I worked 16 hour days, plus Saturdays and Sundays – I wasn’t even home in time to pick up my mail.
After I realized it was time to quit, I promised myself that since I worked hard, I’d play hard too. Why else do we work so hard except to live a little?
Life is short and tomorrows not promised, so take advantage of it while you can.
2. Get a Fresh Perspective
Not much changes in our daily lives. We answer to schedules, routines and calendars. It’s a cycle we repeat every day, which leaves no room for spontaneity or change.
Even if you’re happy in your work and life, getting away for a few days will open your eyes to a fresh perspective. This could be exactly what you need to brainstorm a new business idea, or to breath life into an old project.
Whether you drive an hour or across the country, what you experience outside your daily routine will show you there’s more to life than just your to-do list.
3. Find and Meet New People
Getting offline and into the real world is not only healthy but it’s a great way to meet new people. Face to face human interaction is a very important part of living a balanced life, especially if you’re self-employed working from home.
It’s vital that you and I get out to make real life connections.
Not all of the people you meet will help further your career, but that’s kinda the point. Relationships don’t always need to be work based, sometimes it’s nice to have a few real friends.
4. You Need to Relax and Recharge
Day-to-day life can drain you, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Our bodies weren’t made to be robots working all day, making withdrawals and getting nothing in return.
It’s imperative you take time to recharge, because without regular deposits, eventually your ATM will be empty (yes, I talk in financial metaphors!).
So take the time to relax and put some distance between the daily responsibilities that siphon away your energy.
5. Discover New Challenges
This is probably one of the most important reasons to get away this weekend. I don’t like being out of my comfort zone, and I have to force myself to push past my reservations.
Traveling in itself is challenging, with unfamiliar food, new places and people you’ve never met before. Yes, the unknown is scary.
And yes, you’ll probably get lost from time to time (I know I will). But if you look at it as a challenge instead of an obstacle, you’ll gain more confidence, learn more about yourself and grow as a person.
Make the decision now, to get away from it all, even if it’s only for a couple hours. New experiences can teach you a lot about yourself! So go for a drive, try a new restaurant and get away this weekend.
