Is a Change as good as a Rest?
I just returned from my first proper holiday in well over two years. Also the longest break I have had in several more years than that. I was away for 11 days and nights, which was a proper amount of time to switch off and energise.
Thank whatever deity you choose to invoke that travel restrictions are lifting after what feels like an age of the pandemic. It was good to see something that was not my hometown of London, and get some beachy sunshine.
I feel refreshed, recharged, rejuvenated and re-focused. That is what holidays are for, right?
Whatever your idea of a getaway is - it really is important to recharge one’s batteries. Whether it is a staycation with your significant other where you hike through the countryside, a beach holiday with your mates where you can soak up some vitamin D, climbing through the Andes to go marvel at Machu Picchu – or just pitching a tent in the back garden. A change of scenery but with the convenience of home. The act of stepping away from our daily routine can work wonders for our mental wellbeing.
Unplugging
Switching off the email, shutting down the computer, closing your front door on the way out. All of these things can release endorphins in our minds and even those very first steps of a holiday can be the start of the healing process. Or feeling like you are shaking off the shackles and the cobwebs or the daily grind.
What is your idea of a perfect getaway?
Mine – having done some pretty extensive research over my 40 something years – is largely focused around Mediterranean or Aegean Islands. Greece, Southern Italy, over towards Turkey. They are not far away from me – being London based, it is very handy that these locations are all just a few hours from home. Once there, you get the sun, the beach, the food, and the beachside loungers. Here your biggest decisions to make are what delicious treats to order from the menu, and which gorgeous waiter or waitress you would like to bring them to you. Haha. My idea of paradise.
I love a good city break for a weekend too – I am at heart a city lad and have a distinct passion for the big, noisy, smelly conurbations and seeing how they all have evolved differently from my beloved home town of London. However, for maximum recharge, give me a Greek or Turkish coastal spot with some fun nightlife you can dip in and out of if you please. (Karaoke anyone?)
Near or far?
So I am a firm believer in the ‘break from life’ option. However, reflecting on the old saying, ‘is a change as good as a rest?’ Can you rejuvenate just by seeing a different view?
There is a lot of global migration amongst humankind at the moment. We have, as a species, largely had our freedoms restricted on a global level and this has made a lot of people re-evaluate their lives and priorities. For example, those who have been stuck far from families for the last two years are migrating closer to home, and conversely, those who have been stuck at home with families are contemplating moving further away for a little breathing space.
This could entail moving down the road a little further, or upping sticks and moving to the other side of the world.
I have noticed a trend of people who have been stuck on small islands for the pandemic looking to get off them – but again, conversely – those who have been stuck in big cities are seeking a bit more space and air.
So this anecdotal evidence could indicate that indeed yes, a change is as good as a rest! Perhaps our brains crave that change of scenery. Maybe it goes back to our Hunter Gathering ancestors living nomadically and moving with the seasons. Are we not designed to live life in one spot?
There is evidence to suggest that no matter how big or small the change, whether it is moving your work desk from one side of the room to the other, or upping sticks and moving to the Antipodes, the change can make you feel revived and invigorated.
The Change Agents
We can’t help you with holidays, but here at Global Pathways if you are thinking of changing the view from your window a little more permanently, we are here to discuss!
Use your experience in Deals Consulting to open doors. Our recruiters can discuss lifestyle in different locations with you to see what view you should wake up to every day!
From Bondi Beach to the Golden Gate Bridge, we have the view to suit you.
Rick getting a bronzie
