Tokyo Trials: When a Holiday Leaves You Needing a Break

Thought

I finally took a holiday last week, a trip to Tokyo I had eagerly anticipated for months.

As someone who rarely takes long breaks (or any breaks for that matter), I was excited to explore the city's wonderful scenery, savor local cuisines, and indulge in shopping with the yen so low.

However, as an introvert, the reality of the trip hit me quite hard. Days filled with walking, navigating bustling streets, and constantly being on the go left me utterly exhausted—I found myself more tired than during my busiest days at work.

Upon returning home, I felt an unexpected sense of gratitude for my routine life and the comfort it offers. It was only then that I could truly recharge and reflect on what rest really means for me.

Scoop

The allure of holidays often paints a picture of relaxation and rejuvenation. We envision serene beaches, cozy cabins, or even bustling cities as escapes from our daily grind. However, the reality for many is quite different. A holiday doesn't always equate to rest, and sometimes it can be more exhausting than our regular work routines.

Traveling involves a whirlwind of activities. There's the excitement of exploring new places, but there's also the stress of constant movement, planning, and social interactions.

For introverts, this can be particularly draining. The sensory overload from crowded streets, the pressure to make the most of every moment, and the lack of familiar, quiet spaces can turn what should be a break into an endurance test.

During my Tokyo trip, the physical and mental toll was significant. By the end of the trip, I longed for the peace and quiet of my own home.

A married couple of introverted friends of mine have this all figured out. They recently went on holiday with their parents (if this doesn’t already sound stressful to you) and essentially just stayed at the hotel, enjoying its amenities.

They spent time at the gym and spa, savored local cuisine without stepping out too much, and even had leisurely afternoons sitting by the pool with books. They returned feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, the complete opposite of my experience.

I guess true rest is not just about taking time off work or going somewhere new. It ought to involve activities that allow us to recharge, both physically and mentally. 

The key takeaway is that we need to understand our own needs and preferences when planning breaks. A holiday that involves constant activity and new experiences might be perfect for some, but it could easily burnout a fellow introvert. Recognizing this can help us plan more effective breaks that genuinely rejuvenate us, rather than leaving us more tired than before.

Last Word

A true holiday should be about what recharges you personally, not just what's considered fun or exciting—from yours sincerely, who is still recovering from a holiday.

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