A Weekend Away

by Kena Paranjape on October 15, 2008

in Your Life

Trying to tie a helium balloon to my nephew's ear

Trying to tie a helium balloon to my nephew's ear

I went to Philadelphia with my husband this weekend to visit some family, and on the long drive home I got to thinking about why a weekend away can be so refreshing.  Here are some of my thoughts on why and how a short weekend escape can be almost as restful and regenerating as a two week trip to Europe.  I hope you are inspired to plan your own weekend away soon.

  1. A fresh perspective - Taking a weekend trip is like watching a hysterical new comedy after too many re-runs of Friends.  The view beyond the familiarity of your neighbourhood,  home and workplace can give you a fresh perspective on your life and challenges you might be facing.
  2. Time with people you love - Whether you are taking a road trip with family or friends, or visiting those that live farther away, a weekend trip gives you dedicated, quality time with those you love (like my nephew, Vir, above - too cute!).
  3. Try something new - Sometimes it takes a forced break in your normal routine to try something new.  If you enjoyed gallery hopping, a long walk in the woods, or a game of bocci ball on your weekend escape, schedule these activities into weekends at home.
  4. Escape from the daily grind - Use a weekend away as the perfect time to reboot shut down!  Turn off the blackberry and put bills, errands, chores and work stress behind you as you drive away (fly off). 
  5. Be inspired - Inspiration comes from all around us, whether it be from stylish locals in a town you are visiting or a beautiful table setting at a friend's home.  Note (either mentally or literally) the things that inspire you and find a way to incorporate into your life at home.

Disclaimer:  Sometimes a weekend away can magnify dissatisfaction in your own life upon your return.  Your job, annoying friend or studio apartment seem to get to you far more than before.  Give yourself a few days; if you still feel that way, use that feeling as a leverage for change!

{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }

Amanda Laird 10.19.08 at 9:45 pm

Great post! I am just an hour in from my own weekend away and I nodded my head in agreement with every point.

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