Don’t Skip Your Vacation this Year
Whether it was a trip to see family, a beach meet up with your friends, or something more elaborate such a cruise or trip to Europe, we have all had to cancel or change our vacation plans this year. Considering productivity and engagement levels have increased during the pandemic, you may be thinking you shouldn’t even use your vacation time and should just continue getting ahead on work. Or, maybe you are thinking what the point is in taking vacation time if you can’t really go anywhere.
If you are having these thoughts, you are not alone! Many people are thinking of skipping their vacations in 2020. Before you make that decision, though, read on to discover all the benefits of using your vacation time!
The Benefits of Using Vacation Time
A vacation means more than just an extravagant getaway. The change in scenery and the mental and physical break from work have so many benefits for your health and your productivity. Listed below are just a few:
- A vacation helps you relax and recharge, which allows you to come back feeling refreshed and ready to take on work tasks. This leads you to not only be more productive, but it also improves your job satisfaction.
- Using your vacation time helps improve your team dynamic. This is because you realize how important each team member’s contributions are, leading to a more cohesive and happier team.
- Vacation time makes you happier and healthier. Health Net cites numerous studies that prove taking vacations reduces risk for depression, decreases stress levels and lowers blood pressure.
- Regardless of the type of vacation, taking a break can help prevent burnout. Harvard Business Review states that performance and happiness levels take a nose-dive when we work for extended periods without a break.
“Vacation” Ideas for 2020
With so many unknowns surrounding COVID-19 and rising cases in many parts of the United States, travel is not recommended. However, you don’t have to travel far to take a vacation. What is really important is that you are getting out of your routine. Listed below are some examples of vacations for 2020:
- Go Camping: More people are going camping this year because it is a great activity that gets you outside and brings you closer to your family. If you will be staying at a campground, call ahead and make sure they are open and familiarize yourself with their COVID-19 rules and restrictions. Also, make sure you practice social distancing, wear a mask while checking in and out and in any public use areas, and wash or sanitize your hands often. For a more adventurous trip, consider taking a few days to go “boon-docking” in a more secluded spot.
- Go Hiking, Walking, or Biking: Take a few days off work and just be active outdoors!! Whether it is an extended hiking trip, or you go on a different, nearby hiking, walking, or biking trail each day, research shows that spending time in nature benefits us both mentally and physically.
- Explore Local: We often overlook our local area when we have time off and go searching for a different destination to travel to. This year, do some research on local activities you could partake in. You may just be surprised at how much your area can offer! This also allows you to support local economy during a tough time.
- Stay Home: You technically don’t have to leave your house to go on vacation. A popular trend right now is to take a few days of vacation time to stay home and finish up some long overdue house projects. Not only is this a great change of pace, but you will feel happy and energized working from home after improving your space.
For more information on “vacationing” in 2020, visit Harvard Business Review!
