What are the benefits of taking a vacation?
For you, huge. For your company- just as great.
So why do 40% of Americans have unused vacation time at the end of the year?
Great question.
But then I thought about. It really is pretty ridiculous that we don’t take as much vacation time as we can. We work to buy things that make our life easier and more enjoyable, right? But why work so hard we can’t take a few extra days to ourselves for pure enjoyment?
Do we really love our jobs so much that we can’t tear ourselves away for a day or two? Do our workplaces need us so badly that a day of absence will affect their overhead? Are we afraid of the repercussions of taking a vacation?
No matter how essential you are to your business (I’m talking to you, small business owners), a little time off to realign and rejuvenate is absolutely necessary. Just because you are passionate about your job, that doesn't mean you shouldn't take a little time off. Hopefully I won’t have to work too hard to convince you that vacations are a good thing!
Here are several scientific (and common sense) reasons vacations are good for businesses:
Vacations make us more creative and insightful.
Not only do distant places inspire new ideas, but our mind is refreshed when we leave our workplace. We are re-invigorated and this allows our brain to
better process information and come up with new ideas.
Vacations increase overall productivity.
When people take breaks, they come back refreshed and are
more productive than people who do not take vacations. We are more excited and can work harder after a break, accomplishing more in a shorter amount of time.
Vacations increases overall happiness.
People who take more frequent vacations
are happier with their job and in their personal lives, making them better employees.
Vacations are better financially for businesses.
People are not only more productive for their employer after a break, spending money on an enjoyable activity or trip also boosts the economy, which in turn benefits businesses. Another
financial benefit to businesses? When employees use their vacation time, employees won’t have to pay out the cost unused vacation time.
So do your business a favor, and give yourself some much deserved time off this holiday season. What is your idea of a perfect vacation?
