Virginia WaltonVacation is defined as a scheduled period during which activity is suspended. Based on this definition, are you really taking vacation?
If you are taking time off from work but still checking email, responding to work related texts and calls you are not meeting this definition. You are not spending time with your loved ones if you are buried in a device rather than focused on them while on vacation.
Do you end the year with PTO or vacation days left over? It means you are not taking care of your mental and physical health.
Studies show people who take vacations have lower stress, less risk of heart disease, a better outlook on life, and more motivation to achieve goals. They have better family relationships when they spend time present with family members rather than being on devices.
Here are some of the benefits of vacation, suspense from activity, not just a physical distance from your laptop.
- Reduced risks related to heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety and depression
- Improved quality of sleep and mode which can be present as much as five weeks after vacation.
- Increased motivation
- Increased focus and productivity
- Improved family relationships
- Decreased burnout
- Increased happiness
- Longer life span
Time away from the stresses of work and daily life, it can improve your physical and mental health, motivation, relationships, job performance and perspective. You are more creative, more focused and more productive when you take time away from work!
Studies have found those who take regular vacations score better on performance ratings so why are you not taking your vacations and truly using the time to get away from work.
Remember the goal of vacation is to help you feel refreshed and more prepared to handle whatever comes when you return, but if you are physically away and still electronically connected to work and your other commitments you will not experience that benefit.
Be well!