Feeling like you need to get away? Here are five things you may want to consider if you’re thinking about a break from work this summer season:

1. Take a Vacation!

First and foremost, use those well-deserved days off. After all, you earned them.

Nearly half of U.S. workers don’t take advantage of all the paid time off their employer offers as part of their benefits package, according to a new Pew Research Center report. Studies have proven taking time away from the office is beneficial to your physical well-being, your mental health, and your overall outlook on life.  

[JULY 13 MOAA WEBINAR: Military Travel Hacks: Space-A and Beyond]

2. Do Some Reflection

Is the desire to escape the workplace – or your workplace, in particular – just a fading thought, or something bigger?

Maybe you’ve heard the expression, “A non-decision is a decision.” That is certainly the case if you are stuck in an unfulfilling and unsatisfying employment situation.

Step away and ask yourself, if there was a way to get compensated for doing what you love, what would you be doing? Taking a little time off to refresh and recharge may allow you to open up to new opportunities.

[JUNE WEEKLY MOAA EVENT: Dare to Dream: Live the Life You Love]

3. Connect With Old Friends

Has it been a while since you reached out to those trusted and valued friends and colleagues who have offered you wise counsel over the years? Just like your parched summer lawn needs water, these relationships need nurtured.  

Take the time to reconnect and seek advice from your network about your current employment situation.

4. Make New Connections

Although support from your current connections is critical, make sure you continue to foster new relationships and grow your network.

Consider striking up meaningful conversations during leisure activities. Relationship-building is one of the primary sources for gaining new perspectives, sharing information, and even learning about potential job opportunities.

Bottom line: Be open and willing to engage with a new contact. You never know where it might lead!  

5. Consider Professional Development

Lazy summer days are perfect for reading a good book or catching a movie. These relaxation activities can become great opportunities for you to grow both personally and professionally. 

Need a good book? Consider a selection from MOAA’s Military Professional Reading List, or find an interesting volume written by a fellow MOAA member. And, as highlighted in a recent MOAA webinar, a good movie can be more than just entertainment – it can serve as a vehicle to inform, educate, and shape your future. 

[ON-DEMAND WEBINAR: Leadership Lessons From the Big Screen]

These simple tips can make your summer season both enjoyable and rewarding as you move forward along your career journey.