It's Important to Take Your Vacation Time

Vacation time away from the office can serve as a natural stress management strategy, especially when work environments are fast-paced, hectic and even chaotic. Some employers discourage these type of incentives because they fear it negatively impacts productivity. However, offering nontraditional benefits and more time off positively impacts both productivity and profitability in the workplace.

The need for speed has accelerated due to advanced technology. Employees are now tasked with double the amount of work and more job titles than ever before. Companies who promote a "no-vacation nation" may be putting their company's growth and success at risk. Employers who do not place value on time off or make it difficult for employees to use vacation time may see the consequences of these actions with reduced morale and decreasing employee efforts.

Still, some workplaces discourage using vacation time. The United States is inadequate in comparison to other countries when it comes to rewarding employees with time off. In most European companies, employees typically receive six weeks of paid time off whereas the U.S. averages at two or three weeks of vacation time each year per employee.

It's no secret that employees need time away from the office. Vacation time offers employees the opportunity to rest and recharge, clear their minds and reduce stress that can build up throughout the year on the job. Time away from the office helps to not only recharge, but also to strengthen brain power, according to Dr. Randall Hansen with the Quintessential Careers Blog.

Workers often return to the workforce more energized and motivated, which ultimately enhances productivity. Employees who are healthy often perform better. Studies show that vacation time helps reduce stress and anxiety and promotes success and happiness. Employees who have difficulty with stress management need time to play and create strong family bonds that boost their morale and overall mental health. Individuals with enriched mental health are more apt to handle deadlines, conflicts and high-stress workplace situations upon returning from a few days off.

Make vacation time a priority and create a company culture where employees feel they can achieve a better work-life balance. Avoid guilting employees into waiving their owed time off and encourage scheduling in advance to ensure enough workers are scheduled to keep the business running smoothly. Focus on strategies to help employees reduce stress and encourage workers to step away from the office to refresh their mind and body.

Employers who are willing to sacrifice a day or a week without an employee by giving them much-needed time off may begin to better appreciate and value workers who are dedicated and efficient. Vacation time is a valuable incentive to also keep employees loyal, dedicated and motivated throughout the year. Seek out strategies to make time off a natural part of the company's culture.

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