In a world marked by economic fluctuations, geopolitical tensions and rapidly changing work landscapes, taking a vacation may feel like an unnecessary luxury. But the truth is that stepping away — even in today’s uncertain times — is a strategic move for your well-being, productivity and resilience. As leaders, we must understand and model the benefits of taking time away.
The productivity paradox: Rest improves your work. Vacations can spark innovation and creativity. Changing our daily routines often provides a new perspective to help us find creative or innovative solutions to previously stubborn dilemmas. Be inspired by Steve Jobs, who credited his trips to India as a transformative experience that shaped Apple’s design philosophy.
When was the last time you really relaxed? Time away from work helps prevent burnout by providing a much-needed respite from the routine and unexpected hassles that are part of our daily lives. Work pressures can elevate levels of stress hormones, simulating the feeling of being in physical danger. Relaxing on vacation — whether by the pool with an umbrella in your drink or hiking through a rainforest — can help reduce these hormones and allow your immune system to recover. Improved rest and sleep from vacation helps you return to work able to think more clearly and be more productive.
Vacations keep us healthy. Beyond the post-vacation glow, going on vacation can reduce blood sugar levels and improve levels of good cholesterol. Choosing physical activities like swimming, hiking or biking can improve heart and respiratory health. Vacation time is also chill time. Catch up on sleep and reset your body’s natural rhythms. Make time for a massage and promote improved circulation, flexibility, immune response and reduce joint inflammation.
Pay attention to what matters. Going on vacation with loved ones is an opportunity to strengthen your bonds and create lasting memories (and a few inside jokes). A change of scenery can be the ingredient that helps couples and families rediscover their affection and appreciation for one another. Remember the bumper sticker slogan, “A bad day at the beach beats a good day at the office EVERYDAY!”
Waiting for “the right time” won’t work
If we learned nothing else from the pandemic, it is that uncertainty is always present. Whether it is a pandemic, global events or industry changes, waiting for the perfect moment may mean that you never leave the office. While European governments mandate vacations, in America, most of us don’t use all of our paid time off. Expedia calls this “vacation deprivation” and it has significant consequences for you and your colleagues.
At the end of the day, vacations aren’t simply about indulgence. They are moments of clarity, self-care and reconnection. Whether it’s a two-week international trip, a simple retreat close to home, or a stay-cation, planning time away, even in uncertainty, is a statement that your well-being matters.
Start planning your trip now! Your health, creativity and productivity will thank you. And in the grand scheme of life, moments of joy and exploration are never wasted. What destination is calling you next? ●
Tracey Messer is Assistant professor, Department of Organizational Behavior, at Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management
