Vacation Magic: How Vacations Grant You More Than You Wish For

Taking vacations is like using a magic Genie’s lamp to grant you wishes to generate true wealth: through renewing your energy, clarity and happiness.

Especially in the modern age when you can wake up in one part of the world, fly through the air like a Greek God, then go to sleep in another far off part of the world in that very same day. To envision such a world even 150 years ago would have been unbelievable and awe inspiring. It is truly an amazing time we live in.

However, with an uncertain economic climate, vacations tend to be one of the first budget items to be cut. They can be deemed as frivolous, or even an unnecessary luxury. While I agree that you can cut down on the expense of vacations; I would argue that vacations are a necessary luxury.

Unless you are in very dire straits, or have to pay with debt, I would recommend you keep your vacations. You can always make the money back, but you cannot recover the time; especially if you have young children. Regular breaks are an investment in yourself and your family. Not only do you gain valuable memories from vacations, but they also benefit your health, happiness and long-term wealth. Vacations are a quality of life booster.

Here are 5 research-backed benefits of vacations:

1. Reduces Stress & Burn Out – stress is a modern cancer, there are many studies indicating that vacations reduce stress and burn out, leading to more productivity and reduced absenteeism.
2. Improved Physical & Mental Health – Studies link vacations to lower rates of depression, better sleep, better immunity and even a significant reduction in heart disease.
3. Enhanced Creativity & Problem Solving Skills – stepping away from your daily grind and engaging in activities on your wish list can enhance perspective, including break-through in your career and enhancing earning potential.  
4. Strengthened Relationships & Social Networks – strong close relationships are some of the best predictors of long term health, and travel and vacations can strengthen those bonds. These bonds are also important for emotional and financial resilience.
5. High return on investment: The long view: Investing in vacations can create wealth in the form of happiness, health and career advancement.

So, then how can you optimize these magical medicinal effects on your next vacation?

1. First, set a clear intention of what type of vacation you want it to be, and the outcomes. Do you want an escape? A rest? An adventure? An immersive cultural experience? A nature retreat? There is no wrong answer, but decide what your intention is for your break.
2. Dream and plan ahead, but flex as needed. One of the best benefits of a vacation is the anticipation of it, along with the memories of the last vacation which both last far longer than a week or two. So enjoy the planning.
3. Budget the vacation – I recommend setting a realistic budget (and a buffer) and paying for the vacation up front and not with debt. If you feel you do not have the money and want a $4000 vacation. You can set a date, say 10 months away, and save $400 monthly.
4. Unplug from your ‘regular life’ – when on vacation, stay in the moment for maximum benefit, unplug from both work and life administration.  Leave it behind so you may have a fresh perspective when you return.
5. Reflect on your vacation when you return – what did you like and not like? This will help you plan your next break, where you can get even more benefit by integrating your preferences…and save those photos!!

Instead of seeing vacations as a sunk cost, view them as a quality of life booster. Next time you are hesitant to book a vacation (that you can afford) remember that you are investing in your family memories and yourself. Vacations don’t merely grant you an escape; they unlock a wealth of benefits that last beyond the journey.

They are magic in a bottle – the potential of opportunities and adventures that are yours to harness!

Disclaimer: This article if for educational purposes only and is not personal financial advice.