Defeating The Purpose: How And Why We Are Hurting Ourselves And Why Other Cultures Have It Right

While Japan celebrated another milestone of yet another Centarian and boasts the most long-lived people in the world. And, they say its all because of their healthy eating habits, work ethic, tight community and lifestyle. North Americans on the other hand are noted for being among the most stressed out nations and populations in the world with some of the most serious health and weight issues. And, we can probably attribute that to lifestyle too.

Ironically, the advancement in technology rather than making our lives “simpler” is actually making it more complex. In fact, statistics show that we push ourselves harder now than in years gone by. In fact, the more we have the harder we work, and the less time to enjoy all those things we continue to work “oh so hard” for.

According to statistics a week-long or two week long vacation is quickly (and sadly) becoming fewer and fewer people are taking advantage of. Instead, people are using their well-earned and deserved time away from the office for extended weekends, if and when it’s an available option.

And, experts suggest that this “attitude adjustment” when it comes to time off is due to an increase in living, primarily in gas prices as well and the increasing demand for (many) workers to be available round the clock. Furthermore, say experts, more and more families with both mom and dad working, and with kids involved in so many activities are finding harder and harder not only to perhaps afford the vacations, and the extended time off, but also to coordinate the schedules for such extended excursions.

The number reveal that only 14 percent of American workers plan to take a two-week vacation this year, a significant difference from 2006 by 16 percent. Moreover, many workers don’t even use up all the time they are entitled to. And, they add that this “phenomenon” is even worse among top executives and business owners, who while they may be able to afford the time off, don’t want to go away for too long, entrusting their business to others and coming back to potential “problems” and an intense amount of work.

Yet, according to professionals and workers alike, the short stints of time off fall short of offering the rest and relaxation that are associated with traditional vacations. In fact, many folks use the “time off” to catch up on work around the house and other “obligations”. Plus, by the time they “start” to unwind and relax, it’s time to head back to work. Not to mention that few folks go away without their laptop, Blackberry, cell phone, or some connection to their job or office.