A SMART APPROACH

Ever wonder about other countries that take one entire summer month off? Since no one else is doing business, no one takes a risk of being unavailable. From this American perspective, this practice sounds like a business death-sentence. In fact, its a smart approach to work and life. We Americans have an international reputation for being uptight, overly aggressive and manic about success, at any price. What would happen to us if we actually took some collective time off? Probably, a great deal of good.I spoke with one of our countrys leading corporate communications executives at a dinner last week. She told me the microscopic attention span and inability to make thoughtful, wise decisions in corporate America at all levels is absolutely frightening. This is an experienced, highly successful individual who has employed thousands of public relations and marketing professionals over the years. I think were like horses that have been ridden too hard, for far too long. Just because the technology allows you to multi-task, stay connected to work 24/7 and never stop, doesnt mean you as a living, breathing human person, can maintain a relentless pace. While some of us are born that way and thrive as type AAA personalities, many of us struggle to keep up, burn out and lose perspective. Consider taking a little time off this summer. Run under a sprinkler with your kids, go for a walk, disconnect from the media machine for a few hours and let your brain and spirit expand a little. Breathe. See you in August. Shari Goldstein Public Relations & Editorial Services PO Box 948 Syosset, NY 11791-0948