One of the true secrets to being organized and productive is to take off one whole day every week. Sounds old-fashioned, doesn't it? But it works, and works powerfully.

Let's look at three wonderful benefits of maintaining a Sabbath.

1. Taking a Sabbath is an antidote to workaholism. So often we feel pressured to run faster and accomplish more than we are capable of doing. Sometimes we think our busyness is a sign of professional success and that a full schedule will impress our colleagues. And when an opportunity for relief from our stress finally presents itself, we don't know what to do because busyness has become our way of life. Cultivate hobbies, friendships, and new learning experiences. You know the old saying, "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." Well, it's true - and for Jill, too!

2. Taking a Sabbath establishes boundaries. A day of rest brings closure to your week and gives you time to reflect on your accomplishments, reenergize your mind and body, and organize your goals for the coming week. Defend your boundaries. Fight off any attempt by others to take your sacred ground. During the varied seasons of life, the ability to establishing boundaries is a crucial personal skill that can make the difference between bitter failure and sweet success.

3. Taking a Sabbath creates a day to pray and play. If God could afford to take a day of rest, so can you! Just living in the U.S. puts you in the top 3% of the world's income producers. Be thankful for everything you have and all you have accomplished. Don't complain about what you're not getting done, just remember that there are countless individuals around the world who gladly, instantly and without consideration, trade places with you and delight in the opportunity for a Sabbath.