Can I Roll Over a Week?

A lot of you are either rushing to take your last vacation days before you lose them, or you're begging your boss to find a way to let you roll over some days, even a week or more. Why don't we take vacation more often? It's not like we're not entitled to it. Other countries, it's mandatory to take a certain amount of time off from work. But, us in the United States seem to take pride in saying, "Gosh, I can't remember when the last time I took a vacation." It's not a badge of pride. It's a sign that we are too obsessed with work and too insecure to let go and let someone else take over while you are gone. Many people have that "The Place Will Fall Apart Without Me" mantra floating through their head when they think about taking a vacation.

Doubtful. Highly Doubtful.

It's not job security to have perfect attendance for 365 days and a nervous breakdown as your "gold watch." Take the time. Even if you can't afford a lavish vacation, consider taking time to explore your local area. If you can, take the back roads and side roads someday when you have a free moment. See what's on the other side of your life window. Take time to take care of yourself.

Vacations are healthy. We all know it's more mental than anything else, but taking vacation for mental health is a great way to keep your mind, body, and spirit in sync with your job. Take time to be with friends and family.

Shoot, even I get tired of being and looking in the same places every day. If you're bored, you're not happy. And, one of my best "get happy" remedies is to take a break. (And, no, I don't mean like the "Ross and Rachel break.")

Take time off to give your mind and body a rest from what it does normally. Find time to do something different. Learn a new craft. Find a new restaurant. Listen to new music.

Find yourself.

So, next year, let's hear you say, "I don't have any vacation days to roll over."

-- Happy New Year

Vicki