10 Benefits of Taking a Vacation
How Breaks from Work Can Boost Long-Term Wellness and Productivity
The benefit of vacation became apparent to me in my 20s. In graduate school, I worked three jobs and went to school at night. I worked part-time at UC Berkeley and owned a gym where I trained clients and taught classes. I had a break from school and wanted to go on a backpacking trip with my friends. We planned to backpack through Yosemite, a trip that took a lot of preparation and planning.
I let my clients know the dates I would be gone and asked my boss for the time off. To my surprise, she rejected my vacation request. “I need you to be here,” is all she said. I was juggling three jobs and grad school. If I didn’t get a break now, I wouldn’t have another chance for the rest of the school year. My body felt heavy, and my mind was stifled. I needed a release.
This sounds childish, and maybe it is, but this was one of many drivers that led me to be my own boss at ZaaS (Zen as a Service). I knew I couldn’t work in an environment that didn’t prioritize mental health and recognize signs of burnout. I have no problem working hard for an extended period, but part of that endurance for hard work requires time off.
I knew I couldn’t work in an environment that didn’t prioritize mental health and recognize signs of burnout.
I’ve been my own boss for 13 years and still live by this philosophy. Taking a vacation offers numerous benefits. Here are some of the key advantages I’ve experienced.
10 Benefits of Taking Vacation
Stress Reduction
Vacations provide a break from the daily routine and can significantly reduce stress levels. Not setting an alarm and sleeping in allows us to relax. Engaging in leisure activities, exploring new places, and disconnecting from work-related responsibilities can help rejuvenate the mind and body.
Improved Mental Health
Taking time off allows individuals to relax, unwind, and focus on their mental well-being. Vacations promote emotional stability, reduce anxiety and depression, and enhance mental health.
Enhanced Productivity
Regular vacations boost productivity in the long run. You return to work with increased motivation, energy, and creativity by allowing yourself to rest and recharge. It helps prevent burnout and promotes a more focused and efficient work ethic.
Quality Time with Loved Ones
Vacations provide an opportunity to spend quality time with family, friends, or loved ones. Strengthening relationships, creating shared memories, and enjoying meaningful experiences can deepen bonds and improve overall happiness.
Broadened Perspective
Traveling to new destinations exposes individuals to different cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives. For example, I was in Istanbul during the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Brett Kavanaugh that included allegations of sexual assault. Days later, I was shocked to read that Kavanaugh had been confirmed and turned to talk with the woman sitting next to me. She was wearing a full hijab with only her eyes exposed. My body softened, and my heart opened. There I was, wanting to discuss politics and female oppression in the U.S., and she didn’t even have a right to speak to strangers. This travel moment led to my personal growth, broadened my knowledge, and enhanced my understanding of the world. Experiencing diverse environments fosters empathy, tolerance, and open-mindedness.
Increased Happiness and Well-Being
Vacations are associated with increased happiness and life satisfaction. We are multifaceted beings that need more than intellectual stimulation. Taking a break from the routine, engaging in enjoyable activities, and experiencing new things can bring joy and a sense of fulfillment.
Physical Health Benefits
Vacations often involve walking, swimming, hiking, or exploring new places. Yoga retreats are a great way to improve physical and mental health on vacation. Walking around a new city and engaging in such activities promotes physical fitness, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts overall well-being.
Creativity and Inspiration
Stepping away from daily obligations and immersing oneself in a different environment can spark creativity and inspire fresh ideas. Exposure to new sights, sounds, and experiences can stimulate the imagination and enhance problem-solving skills.
Work-Life Balance
Vacations are crucial to a healthy work-life balance. Taking time off allows individuals to prioritize their personal lives, nurture relationships, pursue hobbies, and enjoy leisure activities, ultimately contributing to a more fulfilling life.
Burnout Avoidance
Research suggests that regular vacations are associated with a lower risk of heart disease, improved sleep patterns, reduced risk of burnout, and overall longevity.
For these reasons and more, vacation offers numerous benefits. Remember, the specific benefits of a break can vary from person to person, but overall, it provides an opportunity to relax, recharge, and prioritize personal well-being.
B The Change gathers and shares the voices from within the movement of people using business as a force for good and the community of Certified B Corporations. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the nonprofit B Lab.
