Taking R&R

My wife and I just took a vacation. This trip was different. Our typical vacation up until now, especially because it included our children, was usually filled with a full agenda of fun activities that led to cherished memories. This particular vacation was truly about R&R, which in the military means rest and recuperation. To fully rest and recuperate, it was necessary that I fully disengage from work, and I focused considerable energy to make sure my team could carry on while I was away. That was our focus, and we were indeed successful. It was worth the effort to disengage and embrace all that came with R&R mentally.

Investing time in R&R is an excellent application of Principle 7:

Agile Best Self Principle #7: Investing the time in yourself is the primary measure of progress.

Since getting back into the realities of my work world, I have spent some time thinking about the return on that investment and why I should start planning the next R&R trip. Here is why I think it’s important to plan this into your year and stick to it even if you get busy. Actually, especially when you get busy.

1. Improved job performance: Taking a break from work can help increase your productivity and job performance. Time off can help you avoid burnout, reduce stress, and increase creativity and motivation. According to an article in the Harvard Business Review, taking time away increases the likelihood of getting a job promotion.
2. Better health: Regular time off can help improve physical and mental health by reducing stress, improving sleep, and allowing you to engage in physical activity and relaxation.
3. Better relationships: Spending time with loved ones and creating memories can improve personal relationships, foster stronger bonds, and lead to a more fulfilling personal life.
4. Increased life satisfaction: Regular vacations have been shown to increase happiness and overall life satisfaction. Taking time off allows you to pursue your passions, try new experiences, and broaden your perspectives.
5. Better work-life balance: A busy schedule can often lead to a lack of work-life balance, with work taking over other aspects of life. Taking time off can help restore balance and give you a fresh perspective on the priorities in your life.

So, when are you planning to take your R&R? I am already planning my next one.

I hope this inspires you to get your calendar out and start making plans. Just the activity of planning helps me by putting that date out there and looking forward to it.

Copyright © 2018 – 2023 Michaele Gardner and Brian Hackerson