“What Is a Workaholic Doing On Vacation?” Edition of Weekend Links

Can a workaholic ever really go on vacation? Is part of learning how to make your business successful always being on top of it? Even if you don’t go to work, you might be facing this problem. Do you find it difficult to really “unplug” when you go on vacation? Do you shy away from leaving at times because you feel you’ve got too much going on?

This is really a curse, and I’ve been battling it all my life. And I have to admit, my “wins” have been few and far between in this realm. Of course, iPhones, Blackberries and Netbooks make the reality of a real vacation even harder to achieve. We can be (and therefore are) plugged in 24/7. No real rest.

I bring this up because I’m about to get on a plane to visit my daughter in Israel. Also, I think this could be important for you if you are planning a trip for the holidays.

My experience lately is that the “unplug” issue has more to do with my thoughts than my actions. Before I go, I make sure I take care of anything that is pressing. I also have great support staff. Finally, if there is an emergency while I’m gone, I’m easily reached and I can do anything I need to do from anywhere in the world.

But that doesn’t mean I stop thinking about my business. For example, even though someone else is dealing with my e-mail, I find myself drawn to check it often. Why? I’m really excited about spending time with my daughter. I don’t get to see her that often. I don’t want to miss a minute. I want to be fully present when I’m over there, yet I struggle with “unplugging.”

If you face this same problem, we both are missing out on some really precious experiences, aren’t we?

Do you find it tough to fully be present when you’re away? Do you spend time thinking about work or issues at home when you really should just be enjoying yourself? How have you overcome this problem?

While you’re thinking on that one…

Let’s move on to the Wealth Pilgrim Pick of the Pack.

This week, Financial Samurai claims the prize. He (or she) won by writing a beautiful piece on why so many veterans are homeless. Beautiful post. Please read and chime in.

Now, for the rest of your weekend reading ideas:

The Digerati Life suggests we tread carefully as we enter into the real estate foreclosure business.

Moolanomy suggests that credit cards are better than debit cards. You decide.

Here’s a timely piece on how to use time well as an entrepreneur. Hmm…this might be the answer to the question on how to unplug. You tell me.

Even though the Brits don’t seem to know how to spell “civilization,” Monevator has another great piece on long-term thinking. How does this person write so well?

I tell everyone I know to only buy used cars. Liz Weston is of the same mind…here’s why.

My buddy Matt Jabs wrote a piece explaining how to make homemade natural deodorant. It’s easy and inexpensive. Hey Matt…are you trying to tell the Pilgrim something?

Here’s a great discussion about money and marriage over at Free Money Finance.

Budget Pulse didn’t really write a post…they created a great program (for free) that you can use to budget and raise funds at the same time. I haven’t reviewed the software yet because of my trip (trying to unplug, remember?), but why don’t you check it out and let me know.

A couple of ideas to help you reduce the money you need to retire by Millionaire Mommy. You can always count on Mom…right?