Need or Luxury?
There are many online articles documenting the fact that Americans take less vacation when compared to other developed nations. I have come to realize that the impediments to taking a vacation or travel are legitimate. However, our perception of taking time off from work is the first step to address and close this gap.
Would you like to be able to travel and take a vacation?
A Question to Answer
The main question to address is, is a vacation a need or a luxury for you? The first time this question was addressed to me I was attending a presentation at a resort in the Dominican Republic. I was a new college graduate with student loans, a car payment and definitely not making enough money at my job. Still, the more I pondered on that question, the clearer the answer became. A vacation is a need for me. I considered how my life and mental health would be if I had to continue my daily routine for a year without a break. I would not survive; I would be burned out or suffer a mental health crisis.
Cruise Excursion in Cozumel, 2023
In 2023 I went on my first cruise aboard Carnival Fascination, it was a last-minute deal that turned out to be an unforgettable experience, I wanted more. Once I realized the positive effects of a good vacation, it became a need and I vowed that once a year I will take a vacation. Over the years I’ve heard many say, and even referring to me, that one must be well off financially to take vacations. I vehemently disagree with that statement. Even when we are just making dos, it boils down to our answer to the question, is vacation a need or a luxury? Why do you need to answer that? In general humans prioritize their needs over their wants or what is a luxury. If you determine that travel or a yearly vacation is a need, then, you will endeavor to fulfill that need.
So, dear reader I ask you, is a vacation one of your needs or is it a luxury that is not necessary for your life? Please take a moment to think about your lifestyle and daily routine before you answer that. Remember that taking care of yourself include your mental health. Do you need some time to reset & recover so you can gain the necessary energy to maintain your lifestyle? A yes answer indicates that a vacation is a need for you. If you answer ‘No’ please let me know why. I love hearing different view points on a matter. If vacation/travel is a need for you, you will take steps to overcome any roadblocks.
Impediments
There are many reasons why people don’t take a vacation or travel, I will only address 2 of the most common.
- Time: In general U.S. workers receive less vacation times then their peers in Europe. With proper planning you can overcome that challenge and find time to reset.
- Cost: Lately it seems that everything is getting more expensive. Whether you are single or with a large family, planning and budgeting can provide funds necessary for R&R. And yes, it may means sacrificing other pleasures, it is a matter of deciding what is more important to you.
In summary, I challenge you to think of the reasons you need a vacation. Contact #canaryxploretravels to get stated on your travel/vacation planning.