10 Things to do on a Safe-cation During a Pandemic
Vacations are an essential part of life. Everyone needs to take some time throughout the year to avoid burn out; it is imperative. Most people have two to three weeks to take upon starting their careers. This year things are surely different, but that does not mean anyone should not take a vacation. Keeping the lines blurred between work/professional and personal time will only lead to resentment and low productivity.
Whether you are staying at home or going somewhere close, just make share you are first and foremost safe and having a good time. It is imperative to experience some happiness and laughter, even though COVID-19 is present. You see, we only have one life to live, and people from all over have dropped faster than flies and some of the world leaders are not too caring about the preciousness of life. However, we know that life is delicate, precious and valuable that is why we are reminding you to take care of you. No matter what you do for a living, you need to recognize that you have contributed your time to society; therefore, you are entitled to a vacation if not for anything other than your well-being.
1) Unplug from work
a) Lay it down. No work computer and phone period enough said. Turn it off and leave it alone while you are away. Life will go on if you die today or tomorrow. Enjoy your vacation, no matter if you are close to home, at home or away from home. Avoid checking in because it will defeat the purpose and drag you back into work mode. Your mind and body may be telling you, you need a break away, so take your time. Heck your boss may have told you, you need time away. Take and enjoy your vacation time off, this is for the sake of your well-being.
2) Game challenge
a) Microsoft has daily challenges where you play against others, you can take some time to do that if games are your thing. The good part is it is all virtual so you can maintain your distance. Design an avatar, and you are good to go. There are other programs and challenges out there pick one and make a go at it for a week.
3) Call a loved one
a) If a friend or family member(s) has come to mind and you have been meaning to call them, reach out to them to see how they are doing. Keep calls as upbeat as possible. If someone's words turn negative or put you in a lousy mood, delicately end the call.
4) Movie night
a) Take an evening or two or even a day and watch your favorite movies. If you have on demand, search for titles or names you like. Stroll through the channel and see what is on that captures your attention. Get in a comedy, laughter is so good for the soul.
5) Read or Listen to an audio book
a) Find a good book and commit to reading it in a week or month. Don't have a great book to read, order one online or get to a library Matthew Michalawicz, has a book "Life in Half A Second: How to achieve success before it's too late. A reminder that time is ticking, what are you waiting for to live your best life. Two other inspiring books to explore is The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale and Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. Shifts in one’s thinking will occur after engaging with the words from these powerful books. Don't forget if you are a believer there is always the good ole B.I.B.L.E.
6) Do nothing
a) Lay around and do nothing. Just be and know that it is O.K. You are entitled to not have anyone bother you on your time off.
b) Sit and be silent. Listen to nature or what ever sounds are in the atmosphere. Your hearing may enhanced when you intentionally listen to what is happening surrounding you and within you; inclusive of your thoughts.
7) Get up early and engage with nature
a) The air appears to be cleaner in the morning, so if you must rise up early and get to the great outdoors, beach, park, or wherever you want to go in nature and get back. Do so before the crowds come if you visit a place with high traffic.
b) Stroll, jog or engage in yoga outdoors.
8) Journal
a) Write down your dreams, hopes, and thoughts without critiquing your writing style or penmanship. Just be non-judgemental.
9) Keep hydrated and eat lite
a) Give your system a break from heavy foods that you may have rushed down your throat to get to the next meeting or meet a deadline. Eat foods high in fiber and lite like watermelons and salads. Make sure to drink a hydrating drink like water before a meal and after to flush the toxins out of the system. A vacation is not the time to be constipated, there is no fun in that.
10) Take a contactless road-trip.
a) Pack ample face-covering/masks for your safety and that of others. Do note some establishments will not let you in unless you have one on.
b) Pack gloves, toiletries and hand sanitizer. (Prepare for unplanned stops)
c) Go Cashless
i) Use a credit card to get gas at the pump and disinfect the credit card afterward.
ii) If you leave the vehicle, place a hand sanitizer in the seat to remind you to clean your hands before starting the engine.
iii) Use an E-ZPass to pay tolls if need be rather than cash. It will save you money and time.
iv) Take a sling bag ladies. Avoid carrying too many things in your hand. Don't forget your water and you can get a water bottle sling to carry that in
In conclusion
No matter what you do or where you go, just unplug from work; do not open a work e-mail, or answer a work call or text. The goal is for you to give yourself a deserving break from work. With COVID-19 in full gear throughout 2020, it has made it almost impossible for people to distinguish between work and pleasure. The lines of work-life balance have become so blurred due to the uncertainties of the unknown, people are burning out emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. If you have a job that gives you vacation this is the time to take it safely.
Contemplating Thought
COVID-19 is a minuscule virus that has brought with it plenty of uncertainties and unknowns. It is quite incredible how something that is not seen by the human eye can disrupt lives all throughout the world. However, we can do our best to enjoy a stay-cation or vacation somewhere by social distancing, wearing a face mask, and building up our immune system. Are you prepared to have safe and positive vacation in 2020?