What Is a Good Break?

It is the time of the year when we see many go on holidays or have gatherings because of the festive season. We all know we need a good break to relax, recharge, and refresh our mind and body.

However, the nature of a good break varies from person to person. Not everyone enjoys a long period of holidays, and not everyone wants gatherings.

It may seem unthinkable to realise this truth, but different activity does bring different kinds of enjoyment or stress to people.

I have encountered a person who told me he does not enjoy holidays because he thinks going to different places is stressful. Even on holiday, different people prefer different styles; for example, some may choose a free and easy mode of travel, while others would select only organised tours.

So, what is the essence of a good break? A few points are essential for a break to be considered great.

1. The activity

It must be an activity that we enjoy. Some find exercising, walking or listening to music a good form of a break. Some, like myself, would include watching an excellent movie as well.

If the activity creates stress, we must find ways to manage it. Maybe we need to simplify it. Perhaps we can reduce the number of invites to a gathering.

Maybe we should use a neutral place for a gathering. Such ideas can be helpful to modify the activity to make it a kind of a break from our routine.

2. Disconnecting from work

We often get our identity tied to our work. You see yourself as a teacher, a soldier, an accountant, etc. When we spend prolonged hours at work, we may get ourselves absorbed in our work to the extent that we value ourselves based on our work.

Regular breaks help to re-orientate our values and personality. We need to be comfortable with ourselves when we have finished our work.

Unfortunately, in today's society, we are often connected to work through video conferences or mobile calls and messages. We don't seem to be able to detach ourselves from our responsibilities at work.

Of course, it differs from one country's culture to another. We need to be disconnected to give our minds a total rest and recharge.

3. Social Interaction

Social Interaction can be a meaningful part of a break when we can spend time with people we value. They could be our family members, relatives or friends.

When we spend time relaxing together, it deepens the bond and helps us to feel involved in a community. We need to constantly talk and share our thoughts with people to face challenges in life.

Social Interaction provides a mental break from our routine. It helps us feel loved and gives us a sense of belonging.

Final Thoughts

The key is to find what suits us more. Pay attention to our needs and preferences, and we can tailor our breaks. Do not follow others mindlessly in doing what they do. To some, travelling to faraway places is enriching. For others, it may be stressful to go that far.

For me, a good break is to compose an article like this. While it may be stressful for some friends who do not enjoy writing, it is therapeutic for me when I write to express my thoughts.

Think creatively to find what breaks you need. It need not be extensive or expensive. Doing what you enjoy may be the most beneficial break from your routine.

Sometimes, the simple things in life can give us a good break from all our chores and responsibilities.

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