- Candidates
- Login
- Setup Account
- Search Tools
- Resources
- Employers
- Employers
- Setup Account
- Login
- Products
- Resources
Kristine Penning
March 01, 2021
Newsletter Article
Did you use all your vacation days in 2020? Taking days off during the pandemic seemed pointless to many, depending on where located and the restrictions in place. Now in 2021, many of those same restrictions remain in place. However, mental health is deteriorating and detaching from work is necessary to aid in recovery. How can you use your vacation days and give attention to your mental health and wellness while also managing the risk involved with the COVID-19 virus?
Take a Staycation: Take a few days off and just stay home! I honestly love days like this where I completely unplug from work and just enjoy being home. Make a list of things you’d like to get done around your place. Or do something you’ve been wanting to but haven’t gotten the chance to at home. Start a home improvement project. Not interested in that? Just enjoy a day of reading or a movie marathon. Or do something else you enjoy that you don’t get to do often!
Take a Road Trip: Nervous about flying? Take a road trip somewhere. Is there an outdoor location you’ve had on your list to see? Last summer my husband and I rented a camper and drove to Utah to explore some national parks. We had a blast and felt free from the worry of extra exposure from staying in hotels and flying. You also don’t have to head cross country for a road trip. Take a day trip or a weekend getaway to something in your state or surrounding area you’ve been wanting to see. I love shopping so I like to find little boutiques I can spend the day traveling to and exploring.
Get Outside: Is there an outdoor recreation area near you? Go for a walk or a hike to spend some time outdoors and away from your house, even if just for the day. Interested in trying a new activity? Rent a kayak, snowshoes, or a bicycle and take it to a nearby state park or recreation area.
Get an Airbnb: Or a cabin or a beach house. Stay put in a different setting and unplug from the working world. This is a great way to get away from your house and enjoy the outdoor setting around you.
Volunteer: Need has not disappeared; if anything, it has increased with the pandemic. Check out local organizations to find a way to safely volunteer. Deliver goods and food to homeless camps in your nearest metropolitan area. Volunteer at your local food bank (or shop for goods for your food bank). Get outdoors and see if your local conservation organizations could use help picking up litter.
There are still ample activities to do while also avoiding exposure. It’s important to give attention to your own wellbeing and give yourself a break from work and solitude once in a while. Reconnect with things you enjoy and spaces you love. And take some PTO!
