Traveling is what soothes my soul. I am often a travel planner. Organizing and arranging things months in advance. But after reading this post on taking a spontaneous trip, I've changed my mind. I have Alexandria of A Modern Girl's Travels on the blog today telling you all about it. Before I dive in, this is sincerely your next favorite blog. Absolutely stunning imagery paired with exquisite and unique takes on travel and more. I'm obsessed.
Hi everyone! My name is Alexandria and I am the creator of A Modern Girl's Travels. I blog about my travels around the world, navigating marriage, and finding tranquility in a world of chaos. Traveling, for me, is the best part of life. My husband and I have plans of moving abroad and living the expat life, however, until we get all the logistics sorted out, we make sure to make the most of our weekends and paid vacation days.
However, not everyone feels this way. I cannot tell you how many of my friends don't utilize their time off. These days, millennials (on average) work more than 40 hours a week and Americans wasted 169 Million paid vacation days last year alone! That is insane to me! Vacations are the best part of my life and are what get me through the work week. So why is it people are wasting their vacation days? These are the two most common responses:
You feel like you'll fall behind at work.
So many people claim to be in the middle of a large project at work and decide to put off vacationing until things “slow down.” Well, guess what? You're always going to find an excuse to not go; you need to make time for yourself so you can recharge from your work week. Studies actually show that time off and vacationing improve your productivity. Not only will it improve productivity but it can also help you be more creative! When you are away from work, you are helping your mind and body recharge, which will help you, your home life, and even your career.
Still need a little push out the door? My advice: Contact your supervisor and go over the schedule for the upcoming months. Speak with them for their insight on the best time for you to use your vacation days this year.
You don't have the money to travel.
This seems to be everyone's number one excuse. Money, for most people, is the number one stressor and deciding factor in their lives. Yes, traveling can be expensive, however, it can also be quite affordable if you just learn a few travel planning hacks. So, to help you out, here are 13 full proof ways to save money for travel. However, some people don't view a vacation as a necessity and you would prefer to save your money to buy a house, or pay off debit. I get it, I really do. So if a few days away just isn't in the books for you, then I suggest a staycation. Take a few days off and get to know yourself and your city again.
5 Reason Why You Need To Book a trip.
- Both points I made are relatable, but “they're just excuses” you're telling yourself. Sometimes, we are our own worst enemy. Get rid of that little voice inside your head that is holding you back from a few fun days in the Caribbean or a week roaming through Italy with a gelato in hand.
- It will benefit your health tremendously. Various studies show that people who regularly take vacations have a lower chance of stress induced illnesses such as heart disease, obesity, depression, and anxiety.
- Prevent burnout. What do I mean by this? Well, when you are overworked, you become less productive, less creative, and get easily distracted. Studies show that when you don't relax, your brain won't focus on the tedious or boring, but essential, tasks you must complete like memorizing a new skill.
- A vacation will strengthen your relationships. Spending quality time with your significant other or friends helps you to form a closer bond with them. Just think, you will have a few days away with the people you care about, forming life long memories, stories to share, and a better bond.
- Because you only live once!
