Nine days: That's the average amount of paid leave American workers receive per year. Not exactly the three-month-long summer we enjoyed in our school days, is it? Vacation is an important way to rest, relax and refuel, and with such limited time off, it's crucial to make sure you're getting the most out of your precious free days. So as you set off on your summer getaway, keep in mind these counterintuitive strategies for making the most of it:
1. Plan early.
One of the biggest pleasures we get from vacation is the anticipation. Sure, spontaneity can be great (last-minute road trip to the beach, anyone?), but knowing that you've got a girlfriend getaway on the books this weekend will keep you upbeat as you slog through the workweek.
Bonus: Pick Your Next Vacay From SELF's Most Blissful Cities List
2. Be lazy.
Vacationers often feel the need to see every sight and jam-pack a dozen activities into the day... and then they return home and feel like they need a vacation from their vacation. I say, don't feel guilty lazing about all day by the lake, or sleeping in deliciously late. In fact, those who describe their vacations as very relaxing are the ones who keep the happy vacation vibe going the longest after they touch back down to reality.
Bonus: 9 Satisfying Summer Reads to Pack In Your Suitcase
3. Ditch the guidebook.
Travelers who choose their own adventures feel most satisfied with their jaunts, so feel free to do it your way. That doesn't just mean skipping the guided tour if it's not your thing; it also means daring to spend the day--or even the whole trip--on your own. If your family or your boyfriend wants to hit the street fair and you want to visit the art museum, go your own way for maximum enjoyment.
Bonus: Top Destinations for Solo Getaways
4. Practice mindfulness.
It might sound like work to bring a meditative practice on vacation, but taking a moment to pause and tune in acutely to your surroundings will help you truly appreciate and savor your getaway. Mindfulness will also help you figure out what you really want to do: This morning you might have decided to spend the day by the pool, but if you're baking in the sun and bored by noon, a check-in with yourself will help you realize it's time to change course--and perhaps head out for a nature walk.
5. Take photos--but not too many.
Part of a vacation's appeals is its potential for making memories. The trip won't last forever, so when you're back to reality, it can do you a world of good to reflect on past good times. Photos--snapshots in particular, which capture the real action and aren't staged--serve as touch points for those memories. Still, you don't want to interrupt your good times too much just to document them. So say cheese, and then get back to the fun. Happy getaway!
Related Links:
