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March 27, 2006

The Real Cost Of Taking A Vacation

It was spring break for much of Alabama this past week. And since I'm also taking a class at our local college, I decided to take advantage of the break and take some time off to rejuvenate.

This was a difficult decision because in many ways business would have been better for me. Folks who don't get a chance to come in during the rest of the year would have time to come get a massage. However, I could tell I needed the break to prevent burnout. Getting out of bed has become more and more difficult and my zeal for going to work has been waning.

So what is the real cost to a self-employed therapist when it comes time for vacation? Remember, there is no paid vacation, so days away from the office is days without income. If you're going somewhere, such as the beach, you're spending money on transportation, hotel and meals. Of course, if you stayed home to rest that week, you'd still be spending to eat and live, as usual. And don't forget, the overhead on your office space (such as rent and heat) is an expense that is no longer working for you that week, though you would be paying that anyway.

I'm not saying that taking a vacation is a bad idea. In fact, it is as necessary as exercise and getting a regular massage. It is part of self-care and should be budgeted into your yearly living expenses. The point is to be realistic about the actual cost of your vacation and plan for the added expense and lack of income. Then you can truly relax and enjoy your vacation.

tags: massage massagetherapy wellness massage+therapy bodywork health

Posted by linda at March 27, 2006 8:31 AM