Vacation is Good for the Soul

​You may find this shocking, but I honestly think one of the most important things you can do in your life is take a vacation. No this has nothing to do with me advocating as a travel professional. It is actually that philosophy the led me to my calling as a Travel Advisor for families all around the world.

Too often in life we are focused on the present, what is right in front of us. But what we often do not see is what is truly important right in front of us. We sacrifice experiences and living in hopes of maximizing our results in the rat race that is life. One day we wake up and we may have a good pay check and a nice car, but we've never connected with the world or each other-- along with all of the requisite stress that accompanies such an approach.

Today it is estimated that US employees only used 51% of their eligible vacation time. Think about that for a second-- last year we gave back almost half of our vacation time. We literally worked more time than we were being paid to work. And for what? Did you get a bonus or pat on the back for missing vacation? Or did you miss the opportunity to feed your soul with new experiences and re-connect with the ones you love?

It has actually been proven by numerous studies that vacation makes you a more effective employee and increases your overall well-being. Did you know that workers earning $24,000 a year who take regular vacation have a higher well-being score than those earning $120,000 a year taking little vacation? 

​Another interesting fact-- women who take two vacations a year are actually eight times less likely to develop coronary disease. And men who take regular vacations are 32% less likely to die from a heart attack. 

And the number of studies that show vacation helps reduce stress, improve work place performance, and connect with your family are too many to list here.

So what do we all need to do? Step away from work whenever possible and enjoy vacation. Doing so can quit literally help to improve, and maybe even save, your life.

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About the Author

Jennifer Whitney, Travel Expert
Jenn has a passion for travel. She loves helping families create amazing memories while exploring the world.  From fun family road trips through the mountains of California, to climbing Machu Pichu, conquering Disney Parks, and even sailing the seas, she has either been there or helped a family get there! Jenn is an Accredited Cruise Counselor, Hawaii Destination Specialist, Certified Sandals Specialist and graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from the University of North Texas.

This article originally appeared on WhitneyWorldTravel.com