If you’re planning to make a major career leap or change, it is worth it to take a deep breath and clear your mind for fresh ideas to come in. Taking a few days off to de-stress can do a lot to boost your physical and mental health.
We’ve listed some benefits that taking a short break can give you and your career.
You will come back happier
This is the most obvious result when you relax for a few days. Research has found that the biggest lift in someone’s mood happens during the vacation planning process and the anticipation of the much needed break. Employees come back feeling energised and happier and this lasts for weeks.
Source: Jessica de Bloom, et al., Effects of vacation from work on health and well-being: Lots of fun, quickly gone. Work & Stress
It changes your perspective
Travelling will let you see a different rhythm in other people’s lives. Even a short weekend trip out of town will let you appreciate life. Such short breaks are often invigorating, making you excited to come up with better ideas and better solutions for problems, which may have been bothering you before leaving.
It increases your productivity
Employees who take short but fulfilling vacations experience less burnouts, and that leads to higher productivity in the workplace. Since the employee is refreshed, there is no reason for absenteeism. They also feel that they are able to accomplish the same tasks as before but with lesser effort.
Source: Dalia Etzion, Co-author: Annual Vacation: Duration and Relief from Job Stress and Burnout.
Improves your health
Employees who skip out on vacations tend to get sick more often than those who take short breaks. Experts say that even taking your yearly vacation reduces the risk of heart disease. Weekend vacations can contribute positive emotions, make people healthier, less tense and sleep better.
Source: Jessica de Bloom, et al., Vacation (after-) Effects on Employee Health and Well-Being, and the Role of Vacation Activities, Experiences and Sleep
Produces healthier relationships
According to a US study, women who take short vacations at least twice annually are 'less likely to become tense, depressed, or tired, and are more satisfied with their marriages.' Returning from a little break will make you feel more connected at work and helps build a better understanding of your relationship with your co-workers.
Source: Wisconsin Rural Women's Health Study
