Taking some time off can be good for you.
People who want to improve their productivity should consider taking some time off from their work. In fact, studies reveal that taking a vacation can boost productivity by 60%, improve performance by up to 80% and increase reaction time by as much as 40%. It was also observed that people who usually take time away from work have better perspectives in life and are more motivated to achieve their goals.
On the other hand, not taking a vacation can increase your stress levels and increase the risk of heart attacks in both men (32%) and women (50%). In addition, it can significantly affect a person’s mental health and may lead to decreased concentration and lack of enthusiasm and motivation at work. Vacation-deprived workers were also shown to be more prone to frustration and usually harbor resentment against the people they work with.
How Do Americans Spend Their Paid Vacation Days?
Considering the beneficial effects of taking some time off from work, it is interesting to note that most Americans only take half of their paid time off each year. It was also observed that 61% of Americans work even while they are on vacation.
Another study revealed that about 40% of Americans will leave vacation time on the table due to a number of reasons. Some simply feel that they cannot afford to take any time off from their work and that no one can ever do their work. Others fear that they will find tons of work waiting for them when they return from their vacation.
So, while the U.S. remains to be the best in the world when it comes to competitiveness (based on gross domestic product), workers from other countries still manage to be as productive as workers in the U.S. despite working fewer hours and taking more vacation.
All this evidence suggests that taking a vacation can be good for you. It can be good for your physical, mental and emotional health and can help you stay focused and be more productive at work. It can also help you manage stress more effectively to avoid burnouts, and may significantly increase your chances of getting the promotion you deserve.
