This blog post is a very personal one. It is my vision, my belief. I am actually writing this blog post from the balcony of my hotel room with ocean view, from where I can hear guitar sounds and singing people on the street as waves hit the shores. Being on holiday made me think about holiday…

In western society, most people only have a couple of weeks a year to enjoy a relaxing holiday, during which they are supposed to recharge physically and emotionally. Disappointment strikes as after a week back in business, the holiday feels like an event long gone. You must have heard the following line, if not from your own mouth: “Uff, back at work just a week and I already feel like I can use another holiday.”

Why is that so? Why is the effect of a holiday so minimal for many people? I gave it a thought, and I think I figured it out: Most people switch off!

You go on holiday, try to think as little as possible about… well, anything. You just try to relax, while keeping your brain clear from thoughts, fully focusing on food and drinks, the beach, the pool side and good-looking people that pass by. You switch of your system, and as soon as you get back to work, you switch it back on… To find yourself in the same state as you were before you shut it down.

I spend my holidays doing the same things as most people do – eating, drinking, sunbathing, swimming, exploring new places… But at the same time, I think. I think a lot! I use my holidays to reflect on my life, to find out what I enjoy and what I’d like to change. I literally look at my daily life from a distance to figure out if I’m still at the right track. I keep notes, scribble down rough ideas that pop up in my mind and organize my thoughts. When I get back and engage in day-to-day routine again, I am not just more energetic because I took a physical rest, I also feel happier, more organized and more focused.

This might work for you as well, or not. All I would like to recommend you is to spend some time consciously thinking about the way you spend your holidays so you can find the most effective way to spend those few precious weeks a year. A more effective holiday can literally change your life forever!

Photo by offnowgirl