The Importance of Travel
Did you know that Americans take less vacation days than anywhere else in the World?
77% of employers in the US offer 10 paid vacation days per year
Australia offers 30, South Africa 27, Peru 34, UK 28 - you get the picture.
Two-thirds (66%) of Americans report working when they take vacation - ugh!
A Forbes article detailed that the #1 reason why Americans don't take time off of work is due to FEAR. Fear of "falling behind."
Yet, time off increases productivity! "If employees would take just one additional day of earned leave each year, the result would mean $73 billion in output for the U.S. economy." HELLO!!! Go.On.Vacation.
It's appalling that Americans are so work-obsessed and frankly it pisses me off.
I know we need to make a living, but we also need to LIVE!
You don't have to jet off to a remote island or backpack through SE Asia to go on vacation. It's a matter of taking time to recharge and spend time with friends and family.
I understand it's important to find joy in everyday moments, but any moment outside of our comfort zone and routine can enrich our lives and bring us joy. Some people don't like to travel (my best friend is one of those people) - that's fine because there are adventures close to home. You don't have to spend a lot to experience something new - go to a new restaurant, explore a new park, take a drive.
Real Simple wrote an article about how spending money on experiences makes you a better and more grateful person. “People tend to be more inspired to comment on their feelings of gratitude when they reflect on the trips they took, the venues they visited, or the meals they ate than when they reflect on the gadgets, furniture, or clothes they bought." We are not our possessions, but we are accumulation of our experiences.
10 reasons why travel is important to me:
Broadens the mind and it can develop a person's character.
Boosts creativity and inspires.
Connects us with people.
Educates about new places, culture, food and music!
Slows us down, relieves anxiety and depression.
Introduces us to diversity.
Helps us face fears of the unknown.
Discovery of oneself.
Helps us break habits physically and mentally.
Promotes joy and enthusiasm for life!
"TRAVEL IS NOT REWARD FOR WORKING, IT'S EDUCATION FOR LIVING"
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