…on vacation, that is.

I took a brief one recently. All too brief, in fact! It’s not something I make enough of a habit of, regrettably. The economy and our general American-workaholic-busyness often keep us from integrating time off into our schedules. In my New York Daily News column this week, I make the case for packing a suitcase and taking off, even if it’s just briefly.

Those with flexible working arrangements often miss this point – they are home, perhaps, but they are always working. It’s too tempting to log in and check a few emails (email snacking, I’ve heard it called), several times per day. If this sounds like you, I recommend that you click over to the WorkShifting site for a great read on When It’s Important To Log Off, Unplug, and Enjoy.

Why is this so difficult for us? A glance at the statistics from other first-world countries will quickly reveal that it is possible to make vacations a normal, every-year occurrence without the world of industry collapsing around us. It’s time to let go of the guilt.

The second most popular reason cited (after the guilt and anxiety of being away from work) is finances, and this is completely understandable. If you have any good brief-getaway, staycation, or traveling on a budget suggestions, do share them with the community. We would love to hear how you have made your temporary escape!