Yesterday my wife, two of my kids, and I went to the Nashville Zoo.  It was so nice to just get away from things and take time to relax. It was perfect weather, especially given what it could have been in July in Nashville, not too crowded, and gave us some time to just be together and have fun.

Taking time to relax in is an important strategy from a work perspective and from life in general.  In a New York Times article (By TONY SCHWARTZ Published: February 9, 2013) he says ” A new and growing body of multidisciplinary research shows that strategic renewal — including daytime workouts, short afternoon naps, longer sleep hours, more time away from the office and longer, more frequent vacations — boosts productivity, job performance and, of course, health.”

I’m sure that I am not alone in living a busy life.  Between work, church, community, and family responsibilities, sometimes there doesn’t seem to be any time left over for fun and relaxing.  However, I think it all depends on how we prioritize our activities.  What really is the most important things to you?  Are you spending time on these important things or are you spending time on mundane daily tasks?

As we take some time to relax in our busy lives we are able to think clearer, have less stress, and feel better about who we are.  I find that when I take some time to go on a walk, swim, or go to places like the zoo with my family, I am reminded of the most important things in my life.  As I return from these activities I am better able to handle all of the other responsibilities I have and to keep things in perspective.

Whether someone works for someone else or has their own business, setting time aside to relax is necessary for their work and home success.  “Our basic idea is that the energy employees bring to their jobs is far more important in terms of the value of their work than is the number of hours they work. By managing energy more skillfully, it’s possible to get more done, in less time, more sustainably. In a decade, no one has ever chosen to leave the company. Our secret is simple — and generally applicable. When we’re renewing, we’re truly renewing, so when we’re working, we can really work.” (New York Times article by Tony Schwartz)

As a small business owner, it becomes even more imperative to have a balance in life.  Many business owners put so much time and dedication into their businesses that it becomes difficult to step away for a relaxing activity. In many cases ‘they are the business’ and so leaving means less profits.  However, if we all take some time for a little relaxation, we will be more productive in the time we do spend working.

At Franchise Info 4 You we can help to find a business that fits an individuals specific needs and work/life balance.  Give us a call at 615-301-8716 or go to www.FranchiseInfo4You.com.

So don’t forget to take time to relax!