Essential Reset: The Importance of Taking Your Annual Leave

Increasing productivity and job satisfaction is frequently discussed in terms of honing soft skills and achieving a harmonious work-life balance during the workday. While these are undoubtedly important, there is another factor that can improve task completion efficiency—and it may surprise you. It is the time you spend not working at all! 

Sounds like a method that suits you perfectly? Let’s dive into the numerous advantages of taking time off and how it can contribute to work performance and overall advancement in your career.

One of the most common misconceptions about annual leave is that taking time off indicates a lack of commitment or dedication. Actually, taking a break isn't a luxury but rather a requirement for maintaining peak performance. Both mental and physical work have saturation points beyond which productivity can rapidly decline. Overworking can cause even simple, routine tasks to become challenges. In other words, without adequate rest, you risk becoming completely exhausted, which compromises the quality of your work, regardless of how many hours you put in. 

But is every annual leave truly a rest, and how much time away from work is required to completely reset?

The excellence of your annual leave depends on your ability to completely disconnect from work while you're away. Putting an end to mental activities like email checking, problem solving, and planning is just as important as putting an end to physical ones like turning off the computer. Before leaving the office, establish firm limits with your coworkers and clients. You should inform them that you will be unavailable while on vacation and how to handle any urgent issues that may arise during your absence. Having this will help you make the most of your free time.

And speaking of which, the things you choose to do in your spare time should be things that make you feel good and give you energy. Activities like reading, hiking, traveling, and hanging out with loved ones all count. If you feel like doing absolutely nothing, that's fine too. Isn’t it all about you anyway? So tune into your senses and give them the rest they need.

Many psychologists and researchers believe that two weeks of continuous rest is sufficient time for your body and mind to release all of the stressors accumulated over the previous period and replenish yourself with energy. If you can't take two weeks off at once, consider taking shorter breaks throughout the year, such as long weekends or individual days off, which can be great breaks from the hectic schedule. These shorter vacays can still allow you to recharge and rejuvenate, allowing you to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Your ability to think clearly and solve problems improves dramatically every time you leave your regular surroundings. Success in any endeavor can be traced back to two things: the infusion of fresh ideas and the motivation to learn something new. You can do wonders for your physical and mental health just by engaging in your favorite activities, spending time in nature or in a relaxed environment with friends, practicing self-reflection, or even getting some extra sleep. These advantages will help you return to work feeling revitalized and ready to tackle new challenges. Being in such a state of rejuvenation increases not only your productivity but also your enjoyment of work. More than that, though, these advantages provide a firm basis for future development and success. You'll bring more to your role and the organization as a whole when you return with renewed vigor and a broader perspective, ready to seize big opportunities.

Not convinced? Then put your faith in the numbers! Researchers at the University of Tampere in Finland discovered that workers who took more vacation days reported lower levels of job stress and exhaustion. Ernst & Young's research showed that employees' annual performance ratings rise by 8% for every additional 10 hours of vacation they take. According to the same survey, employees who took more vacations were less likely to quit their jobs. Moreover, the Journal of Happiness Studies found that vacationers experienced a significant boost in happiness for up to eight weeks just by thinking about going on vacation. Talk about the transformative power of doing nothing!

What about us?

Here at Lilly021, we encourage our employees to fully utilize their statutory days off. During these periods, we respect their space, ensuring that their rest and personal lives are undisturbed. We recognize that combating burnout is not a solo battle; it's a collective responsibility deeply ingrained in our corporate culture. This is why we not only respect everyone's vacation but also plan regular gatherings throughout the year. These provide opportunities for our team to unwind, have fun, and get to know each other outside the formal work environment.Bottom line, if you’re joining our team, you’re embracing the philosophy that 'best' and 'rest' rhyme for a reason!