Six Weeks

Would you believe the happiest people in the world if they revealed their prescription for happiness? Most of us would not because we are tuned in, we already know that more money and working longer lead nowhere and more importantly we think we know how to achieve happiness.

I read an answer and it is one that I can believe. The answer is that the happiest people in the world take six weeks of vacation per year. On average Americans and Canadians take 8 to 16 days per year. During my working life, I managed to have 11 weeks a year, and I know I was able to maintain a happy, positive outlook.

An alternative to having one long holiday, which many find stressful, is to try taking sabbaticals. What is a sabbatical?   The term sabbatical is derived from the biblical Sabbath which serves an ancient human need to build periods of rest and rejuvenation into our lives.

Here is a question, can you live creatively when you work 60 hour weeks year round? I would argue that most of us can't. Just as the land must remain fallow every seven years, your mind and soul need rest on a regular basis.

Here's a tip: Because much of the value of time off comes from creating plans and the pleasure of anticipation, take one week or two-week breaks instead of one longer vacation. This can double the happiness benefits of your vacation.

A sabbatical or a long holiday, obviously, do what works for you.  Some people live scheduled lives when they work. Others have a more varied life. Some like to keep things open. Some like structure. Let your sabbatical reflect your desire for openness or structure.

Choose what will generate the most pleasure and least stress. For me, I value some structure in my daily life so, when I am on sabbatical or holiday, in contrast to my regular routine, I have very few plans. I do like to eat breakfast in a nice place at the about the same time in the morning, and take naps at the about the same time every afternoon.

While in Australia, I learned the value of walkabouts and having less structure. I know take a serendipity approach to holidays and life. I find using this approach provides me with an opportunity to try new things and opens my mind to the unexpected and allows me to watch and/or participate in the unfolding magic of life. Over the years, I have arrived at what works for me. Whatever style of time off works for you, believe the answer, and claim your six weeks and start on the road to finding happiness.