If you had a “forced vacation,” what would YOU do with that time?

Posted by Tara Greco

In this economic climate, it is an interesting question to ask yourself. 
If your company started instituting furloughs to cut costs or balance the budget, how would you react?

At first, I would probably be relieved that my company isn’t laying off employees—and then I’d have to think about what I’d do with those days.
Do I spend money to go somewhere on a vacation? I may have more time, but I’d also have less money, so I would probably not leave town.
Should I do something more economical like a “stay-cation?” We do have some great free museums here in D.C.…

I’m guessing that I would most likely follow the lead of these people, highlighted in a USA Today article this week.
Many furloughed workers are using that bonus time to help others by volunteering with local nonprofits, education programs and even disaster-relief efforts.

It helps to take the sting out of the situation if you’re not dwelling on what you’ve lost and focusing instead on supporting someone else who is encountering difficulty.

If you find yourself in this predicament, or even if you’re looking for a pick-me-up to your regular routine, consider volunteering.
You can go to VolunteerMatch to find opportunities near you.

Or, if you’re at a nonprofit seeking more hands and minds to help you meet your goals, consider following the business news in your town to learn about companies and/or government entities instituting furloughs.
You can provide an opportunity for those employees to use their time productively.