This summer I did something I’ve never done. I took a 2 week vacation. The funny thing was no one thought I could actually do it, including my husband who needed convincing that I wouldn’t do a lot of work or cut the vacation short due to some pressing need at the office. He had good reason to question, as I had cut the previous 2 family vacations short due to new business pitches. That coupled with the stress of the economy and the fact that I felt like I blinked and my young daughters had turned into young ladies led me to the decision to get away for 14 glorious days.
I gave my team plenty of notice and reminders, 6 months out, 3 months out, 30 days out. As it turns out, it was probably more of a reminder to me than to my team, and I’m quite sure they were looking forward to me being away as much as I was. Nothing was going to deprive me of this needed time away.
Expedia says that 49.4 million Americans are vacation deprived. And 34% of those employed say they don’t use their vacation days. What’s wrong with us?
I understand all too well that now more than ever, we are stretched thin and working longer hours. And I’ve read a few articles that describe employees who are fearful of going on vacation only to return to a pink slip. But in a workplace that requires fresh creative thinking, time off to recharge is not only good, it’s essential.
34% of Americans say they come back from vacation feeling better about their jobs and are more productive. 53% say they come back feeling rested and rejuvenated. And 53% say they come back feeling reconnected with their families. Are your bags packed yet?
As fate would have it, my vacation fell during the final stage of a very important pitch. Did I cut my vacation short? No. Did I work on my vacation? Well, a little. But I still came with a renewed spirit and a whole new appreciation for time spent away from the office. Which now makes all the time spent AT the office more productive and enjoyable.
"Jennifer, thank you for this post. I myself took about 2 weeks off and have just returned. I couldn't help but feel guilty for the first several days - I checked email "just to make sure I deleted the junk mail." As a freelancer, I'm especially aware of those times when I am not working, because I am paid hourly. This year, I had to plan around that - work harder for a few weeks prior and a few weeks afterward to make up for "lost time." But you are right. Now that I'm back to the grind, I'm thinking more clearly, and my energy is back. Sometimes in order to do our best work, we must remember who we are away from the office."
August 31st, 2010 at 8:34 am
"Lelia, Thanks for your comments. I know it must be even harder as a freelancer to make vacation time (or rejuvenation time) a priority. Especially with the insane before and after "catch up" time. Your post may be just what I needed to go ahead and book next year's 2 week vacation! Thanks."
August 31st, 2010 at 5:08 pm