When I went on vacation with my family recently, (I haven’t actually taken an “official” vacation in about 4 years) it reminded me of a valuable lesson. I know what most of you are saying, “Are you crazy? 4 years, I would have gone crazy without a vacation!.

Well, I will tell those of you whom are reading this and thinking just that…YOU ARE CORRECT! It had been too long and I am going to try really hard not to make sure it doesn’t happen again!

No, don’t get me wrong. I have taken day trips with my family to the local zoo and local musuems, however, I am talking about getting out of town type of vacation—not being at your home or even near it.

We went to Sanibel Island for the weekend. For those of you not familiar with Florida, Sanibel Island is in Desoto County and it about 2 1/2 hrs south of St. Petersburg (where I live). We were graciously offered to stay in a condo on the beach for the weekend (free of charge). So our only expenses were food and gas. And boy, did we have a wonderful time.

Here is my lessons from taking this vacation and these may help you as well:

Lessons about taking a vacation away from your home:

1) When you are away from your home, you don’t have to worry about cleaning it.

2) When you are away from your home, you don’t have to worry about paying bills.

3) When you are away from your home, you can focus on your family more, because there are not so many other distractions (computer, email, fax, knocking at the door).

So, do make plans to get away from your business and the daily grind of things. You will be amazed on how it re-energizes you for your business and life when you come back to the office.

Filed under: Writing & Speaking Business Lessons