American today have less leisure time than our ancestors whether they were hunter-gatherers or working the fields as peasants, serfs or slaves. Americans today have less vacation than most people around the world. Yet study after study shows that long hours and constant connectivity actually decreases productivity, creativity, and the ability to get along with people at work. Americans often don’t even take the little bit of vacation and breaks they are due.
Start today – take a break from “checking in” on email or text. Enjoy the weekend with family and friends. Breathe the air of leisure even if only during a break in the midst of your day. This break is critical to both our psyche and your soul. It also makes room for meditation, introspection, laughter, and moments of peace. Take a break, you deserve it and so do we!