Rest Rewarded

If you’ve been following along the past several days, you know I was feeling drained. Thanks to the encouragement of some trusted friends and advisors I decided to take this past Friday off from work.

Today, I returned to work after a refreshing three day weekend.

Mondays are always a little crazy at the office as I try to get momentum on the week while dealing with a few regularly scheduled meetings. These meetings are a necessity; however, they sometimes leave me tired – even at the start of the week.

Today was a little different. I still had all these meetings. In fact, my day was full of meetings. The difference was that I felt more energized. I felt a more positive attitude. I even felt excitement about what waits for me as I get into the week.

I really do like my job (most days), but I still need a break from time to time. All work and no play is a recipe for burnout and overall job dissatisfaction.

It was affirming to share with my co-workers about my weekend – especially my day off when I went golfing, went to the movies, went Mother’s Day shopping, and went for a hike – all mostly by myself.

As I left the office today, I felt like I had been rewarded for taking Friday off.

Don’t forget to take a break every once in a while. You need it. And an occasional break will actually make you more productive in your work.

At least that’s what I experienced today.

How was your Monday? When was the last time you took a break? Share your thoughts in the comments below.