HARDWORKING entrepreneurs can be counted on to be hands on in their businesses 24/7. An order hasn’t arrived at the end of the day? The businessman/woman will be on the phone instantly to find out from the supplier why the order hasn’t arrived. The computer system bogged down at 9 p.m.? No problem. The hardworking entrepreneur will go to the office to determine what’s wrong then communicate with the server people. Even on weekends, some entrepreneurs will still have business on their minds and will check on their stores (or the competition) if possible.

But working doubly hard for long periods of time without taking vacations can be bad for your physical and mental health. It’s like your body is on constant red alert. In an article entitled “Stress Basics,” staff at the Mayo Clinic say, “Over time, that level of stress leads to serious health problems.”

Migraines, back pains, vision problems and even allergies are just some of the health problems associated with work stress. While relaxation techniques and delegating tasks help, a good stress-free vacation can do wonders to recharge and reinvigorate the working man.

Early this month, I had a three-day vacation in Baguio with a friend who happens to be the editor-in-chief of a monthly magazine. Since both our schedules are always fully packed with work deadlines, meetings, interviews, and mommy duties, we welcomed the break and resolved to just chill. Our vacation schedule was not hectic, and several times we just caught ourselves staring at nothing, and saying over and over again how wonderful it is not to do anything. We ditched the touristy activities (no Mines View Park, horseback riding, and Burnham Park for us). Instead, we chose relaxing activities we could do with no rush: a trip to the salon for a mani-pedi, a luxurious massage at a spa far from the mall, visits to an art gallery and museum for a culture trip, and long meals at restaurants that serve delicious entrees and the freshest salads. We also took the stress-free ride to and from Baguio, taking the de luxe aircon bus with no stops. Needless to say, we both felt recharged even with just that short vacation—a far cry from other vacations that are so hectic, you need a vacation to recover from your vacation.

Have you used your vacation leave credits this year? Although it’s been raining now and then, summer is still here, a perfect time to chill either up in the mountain or down at the beach.