Have you taken time off lately? With remote work being an easy option to simplify our work lives it can be difficult to feel secure taking advantage of vacation days. However, taking regular breaks from your work is essential to happiness in your role. If you’re curious about the benefits of taking a break from work, consider the impact that it will have on your own health and happiness. Plus, it could have a positive impact on your work and your ability to function during challenging times.
Time off can reduce stress
The most obvious benefit of taking vacation time is the ability to reduce stress due to decreased focus on work and activity level. Taking time away gives you the opportunity to travel, to engage in self-care, or to simply rest. By increasing these activities, you should find a reduction in your stress levels, which will ultimately let your return to work feeling refreshed.
Disconnect from work challenges
If you’re feeling especially frustrated or challenged at work, taking time away can give you the opportunity to remove yourself from that challenge for a little while. By taking a break from your frustrations, you may return with a fresh perspective which can help you solve challenge more easily than prior to your break.
Accommodate your personal commitments
Probably the most important part of taking time away from work is the time and energy you then have to meet your personal commitments. Taking a break gives us the opportunity to spend time with loved ones, meet obligations like participating in a family event, and focus on our own wellness. Remember that you are a person outside of your work. It’s important to meet your own needs and wants, not just those of your organization.
Realign your values
Stepping away from your workplace also helps you to realign your values. During the time that you’re away, consider whether your current lifestyle fits your values and what changes you might need to make in order to more closely align with your intentions. Time away can help you understand what is truly important to you, as well as help you gauge your progress on personal goals, while giving you the time and opportunity to consider what needs to change in order to achieve your goals.
Time off is also a benefit for your employer
Did you know that you taking time away from work can also benefit your employer? Taking a break can help you return to work happier, more motivated, and more productive, which will obviously make your employer happy. Returning to your job with a fresh mindset will increase your functioning in the workplace, leading to better results in your projects, sales, or other job-related goals.
About Therapist Samantha Nolan, MA, LPC, ATR-P- Barnum Counseling
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