There’s a timeless saying: “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” I didn’t fully grasp its profound meaning until adulthood descended upon me like a heavy fog. As a carefree child, I simply saw it as a gentle nudge to indulge in play and relaxation amid the hustle of life. However, as I ventured into adulthood, the weight of responsibility revealed a harsher reality, one that is certainly not for the faint-hearted.
In the grind of adult life, we often find ourselves laboring tirelessly, even on days when motivation feels like a distant memory, because so many depend on us. Yet, the harsh truth is that those very individuals could probably thrive without us. Overwhelmed by our myriad responsibilities, we often push our own needs to the sidelines. This is precisely where the holiday season steps in, illuminating the importance of taking time for personal renewal, reflection, and joyful celebration.
In Nigeria, we are granted a mere 12 public holidays each year, with the longest being a scant two days. This brief respite is scarcely enough for genuine rejuvenation. While companies often see these days as a threat to productivity, they need to wake up to a crucial truth: a well-rested worker is a more effective worker.
Our bodies are extraordinary creations, ceaselessly carrying us through the whirlwind of life. We must learn to honor our need for rest. If we overlook the cries of our bodies, they may eventually respond by shutting down entirely, forcing us into a state of incapacitation. I frequently urge others to prioritize rest, even as I promise myself that I will do so once I attain financial security. Yet, even the most successful figures, like Dangote, seem to perpetually chase after wealth. Ultimately, ignoring the necessity of rest leads us to invest financially in periods of recovery when burnout becomes unavoidable.
I am a firm believer that we all need more holidays. These essential breaks serve as a much-needed reboot for our minds, allowing us to unwind and step away from the incessant glow of screens, particularly for those of us who find ourselves tethered to laptops throughout the day.
I often find myself lost in nostalgia, reminiscing about the carefree holidays of my childhood—days drenched in laughter and devoid of worry, enveloped by the warmth of family, loved ones, and friends. Today, my holidays are a conscious choice, giving me the power to dictate how I spend my time. There is a time for everything, and everything deserves its time. We need holidays to relax and reflect on our true selves.
I yearn for more holidays in Nigeria, as they would invigorate individuals, returning them with fresh perspectives and renewed energy. More holidays wouldn't be a burden on the economy; rather, they could facilitate a healthier distribution of labor across diverse job roles. For instance, essential workers like doctors and nurses could enjoy shorter hours on public holidays, ensuring that their crucial responsibilities are met while alleviating the weight of fatigue.
As the saying goes, “a well-deserved break is the best kind of fuel for the journey ahead.” Without more breaks, our country may face dire consequences.