Sunny Health

The Chinese saying 休息是为了走更长远的路 (Taking a rest allows one to walk further) exists for good reason. People perform best under conditions when their basic needs are satisfied, which includes emotional satisfaction and physical conditions. Yet some are still doing overtime and working their butts off during the holiday season, not because they have been unfortunate enough to land a mandatory shift during the holidays, but because they want to earn more money, or believe that’s the way to show that they are productive. Nothing wrong with diligence, but your health is important too, and in times of stress and unhappiness, taking a well-deserved break can be an effective treatment. Furthermore, it can actually help to boost productivity at work.

How can you become more productive when not working? Well, one would turn to finish up all important work before the vacation to avoid a pre-vacation or post-vacation meltdown. You certainly wouldn’t want to be called up in the middle of your vacation to be questioned for shoddy work. You would thus be motivated to eliminate all distractions and focus on your work. The vacation becomes like a carrot that prompts you to run faster.

Vacations are the closest things to true freedom – waking up and going to bed at whatever time you want, choosing where to go and what to eat, not having to do actual work. By letting your hair down and doing things you really like, you ease inward tension, depression and tiredness. If you’re with family, friends and loved ones, this is a good opportunity for you to boost your relationships and social life, and this does wonders to your mood as well.

Going on vacations may also bring out the innovator and explorer in you! Often times, we are used to a monotonous routine in our daily lives. On a vacation, one would tend to live a little differently, especially if you’re overseas. You would be in a different environment from your office, you might eat different meals from what you originally ate. You might be planning a vastly different schedule from your usual ones to get the most out of your vacation. By thinking differently, you invite inspiration. You may even get new ideas for work!

Don’t short-sell yourself, and then bemoan that you’re being overworked and underpaid. If you don’t clear your paid leave, you are essentially working for free, Even our labour laws protect workers who have been made to work without adequate rest.

Vacations don’t necessarily have to be taken overseas. Lounging around your house, booking a chalet or local hotel room and planning an itinerary to visit the best local attractions and sourcing out all the best recommendations from food bloggers (if you’re a foodie) are relaxing and affordable ways to take a break.

Be sure to rest and relax this long weekend so that you can welcome the new year with renewed vigour! Have a great 2016 ahead!