Why You Should Take a Vacation Every Year

People in recent times have not been taking vacations. 40% of people worldwide don’t plan on using all of their paid time off this year. And you may be one of those people. Are you hoarding up your precious vacation days and do you keep saying you’ll use them, but something always seems to get in the way? Maybe it’s your workload, or, maybe you’re worried about your job security.

The most common reason why people are not taking vacation is because they suffer from what researchers call a “martyr” complex, in which they believe that no one else can do their job as well as they can. Another 20% of people who don’t take vacations say they skip out because they are afraid and feel they are easily replaceable.

If you too have relegated vacations down your list of priorities, it is time to recognize that it is as important as good food and exercise.

And more importantly: Taking a vacation could make you even better at your job. Yes, it’s true. Read on, and start booking your next flight or planning a staycation.

1. You reduce your stress

Whether you are experiencing burnout or in a high-pressured environment, going on a vacation will dramatically reduce whatever stress you are experiencing. Stress doesn’t help you see things clearly. When you do take a break, solutions will come to you with far more clarity.

2. Decision making will be far easier

You know most of us can suffer from decision-making fatigue when we are over worked. Yet making decisions is critical to simply get things done. The first step to success of any form is to make that committed decision. Give yourself time to think with more clarity. People who are overworked tend to just spin the wheels at work. They work hard but how effective they are is questionable.

3. You do your health a lot of good

According to a study by the State University of New York at Oswego, after surveying 12,000 men, it was discovered that men who go on vacation reduce their overall risk of Cardiac Heart Disease and death by 20%. This is not restricted to men obviously and should be a consideration for everyone regardless of gender.

4. You improve your productivity

According to a survey by Sam’s Club, it was discovered that very few small business owners take days off. This caused exhaustion, impatience, poor decision making and illness. You will be helping your work by becoming more productive after taking a vacation. According to experts from the University of Pittsburgh, people are satisfied with life on vacations and return more energized and positive to work.

5. You become more creative afterward

Vacation provides you with the time to refresh and recharge your brain cells. According to experts we are wired to recharge and not go the long haul or stretch without a break. That is why many workers or busy people get their best ideas away from work or the office space. And it does not have to be a huge break. Just ask yourself one question – When am I most creative? When do I feel in the zone? Then create that space for yourself.

6. You become happier

A recent study shows that taking time off improves your happiness. Seems obvious right? People who took a vacation were happier than those who did not, according to a study that surveyed 1,500 Dutch adults. This was because of the wild anticipation and excitement involved in anticipation of their vacation. Even after returning from the vacation the elation was sustained. According to the study leader, Jeroen Nawijn, it is better to spread the vacation experience twice or three times in a year, rather than taking one big vacation!

7. You are open to new perspectives

Whether you are going to the beach in a foreign country or driving through the heat of Darwin, being away from work gives you an excellent time to reflect and open yourself to new possibilities. At such a period away from work, you can see the world from a holistic angle rather than a lopsided angle. You could be pushed to read a business book, learn new cultures and change your perspective to one that will help you gain better vision as you return to your everyday job.

8. You offer yourself some family-time or self-time

Quality of life is dependent on how you appreciate yourself and those who are around you. It could be with yourself, family or friends; but only time away from a busy schedule can offer you time to appreciate the people around you. Going on a holiday offers you an opportunity to think about those things that matter, whether it is by reflecting or planning. Vacation gives you a sense of peace and warmth and puts everything into perspective.

It is important to be selfish sometimes. As the old saying goes, “all work and no play makes jack a dull boy.” We are social animals meant to spend and challenge ourselves from regular routine. Getting out of your comfort zone and experiencing something new is good for your body, mind and those around you.

If you’re still afraid, consider this: Companies are paying their employees to get out of the office or they are removing restrictions to how much vacation time they can take off. Enjoy your vacay!

Read The Pros And Cons Of Working Overtime