Budget a break to beat the blahs

A Calming CruiseAre you blaming your blues on the weather? Maybe a combo of winter weather and work stress have hit you a little too hard. Sounds like you need to hit the beach.

Whether or not you spend winter suffering from SAD, a Times article blames modern life for rising numbers of unhappy workers. Stress disorders start out with feeling down in the dumps, but before you know it prolonged depression symptoms could cause a long-term leave.

To nip the mental illness in the bud, studies suggest finding ways to relax. But since your boss flips out when you ignore late night phone calls, evenings off are a thing of the past. It takes a fully fledged experience to fight off the office blues.

In summer, it seems like hardly anyone is ever home. But in winter, only a lucky few jet off to sunny spots. Turn this trend around - a hot weather vacation is your perfect winter antidote. Bright sunlight is the best cure for SAD and the total break relieves work woes.

Three B's before you hit the beach stress-free

1. Boast. Announce your getaway plans for a two week cruise to everyone you know.

2. Blame. "Mark threatened divorce if I take my laptop- do you think he's serious?" All your officemates will join sides with "Mark" and before you know it, the boss bans you from working while you're away.

3. Be calm. To clear your inner guilt, tidy up your work before you leave. Let others know what they have to handle while you're gone, and pack your bags baby, you're flying!

How do you beat the winter blues?