| Is modern-day society leading to the extinction of | | | | A sense of well-being can be accomplished with |
| free time? It seems that the days of having | | | | thirty minutes of reading a good book, playing |
| plenty of time to accomplish all of the normal | | | | with the dog, or simply relaxing under a big shade |
| day-to-day responsibilities and having a bit of free | | | | tree. Even ten minutes of a relaxing activity can |
| time are virtually gone. | | | | be extremely beneficial in this day of non-stop |
| How did this happen? All of the new technological | | | | constant on-the-go activity. A ten minute rest for |
| advances should be providing an abundance of | | | | the eyes can really add a spark to a dragging |
| free time. Nearly everything has been automated | | | | energy level. A quick walk around the grounds can |
| in some way. There are fast cars to transport us | | | | also offer a much needed break and a chance to |
| quickly to our destination, dishwashers and robotic | | | | clear the mind. |
| vacuum cleaners to take care of household tasks, | | | | Occasionally, when a greater amount of time can |
| cell phones for immediate communication and | | | | be set aside, mini-vacations or outings should be |
| problem resolution, and computers to speed up | | | | planned. It is important to include some fun in |
| previously tedious tasks. | | | | everyday life. Extreme work schedules can |
| The problem seems to be that because we are | | | | ultimately lead to burnout and other serious |
| capable of doing so much, the expectations are | | | | problems. Amazingly, time off spent doing |
| higher. The bar has risen. Our employers, our | | | | enjoyable activities can actually lead to more |
| families and even we have ever-increasing | | | | productivity in work and family responsibilities. |
| demands on our time. What can be done to draw | | | | It is reported that many in Corporate America |
| the line and hold on to a bit of sanity in our lives? | | | | are not taking their earned vacation time in full. |
| One technique is to take a "vacation" every day. | | | | And, if they do manage to take a vacation, they |
| That is not to say go away on a literal trip every | | | | are taking their cell phones and personal digital |
| day, but rather take a break and do something | | | | assistants with them. It is important to find a way |
| enjoyable each day. Allot some time each day | | | | to take advantage of this valuable time off. In |
| whether it be thirty minutes or even ten to do | | | | terms of value, it is a matter of health rather |
| something truly enjoyable and satisfying. For | | | | than dollars and cents. The health of the country |
| some this may mean doing nothing at all. For | | | | depends on utilizing time off for personal |
| others, it may mean doing something meaningful | | | | relaxation and pursuits. |
| that normally is not given full priority over other | | | | With a little planning and discipline, a balance |
| obligations. | | | | between work and life can be realized. |