Want To Be More Productive? Take More Time Off
Do you take enough time off of work and life to just get away?
(That was a rhetorical question. I know what your answer is – that’s why I’m writing.)
Do you find yourself saying things like, “I’ll take a vacation once this project is done,” or “There’s so much going on at work and with the kids – I don’t have time to think let alone plan a vacation!”
Or maybe, “I can’t afford to take time off right now because (Insert whatever reason you use here).”
I hear this a lot from members of the corporate teams I train and my private coaching clients who have hired me to teach them how to work with more passion and purpose and live a fuller and more meaningful life.
Funny how we allow old mindsets to rule our behavior.
According to a new study, “Americans left an average of 3.2 paid time off days unused in 2013, totaling 429 million unused days for U.S. workers.”
(Boy not me! When I worked as an employee, I couldn’t wait to take time off. In fact, I used to borrow vacation hours from the future so I could take a trip.)
Time Away = Increased Productivity
The results of the study state most managers recognize the benefits taking time off from work provide to employees: higher productivity, stronger workplace morale, greater employee retention, and significant health benefits.
So if it’s so good for us, why aren’t we taking more time off?
Here are 3 of the biggest lies we tell ourselves:
1. If I take time off, my boss will think I’m not committed to my work. – Most managers understand that time away leads to a better performing and more loyal employee. If your manager isn’t part of that group, perhaps you can leave a copy of the study in her desk – highlighted.
2. I’m the only one that can handle this project and get it done correctly. – Taking pride in your work ethic is admirable. Thinking you are the only one who can do it “right” is costly – not only to your physical and emotional health, it’s costly to the company. Everyone needs a break. Removing yourself from a project or problem will give you the space to clear your head. You’ll come back refreshed with clarity and a new perspective. This is where creativity and innovation thrive!
3. I can’t afford it. – Wrong! Getting away doesn’t have to involve airfare and expensive hotels. Some of my most enjoyable vacations have been spent in my area playing “tourist”. It’s called a Staycation and it’s a wonderful way to discover all your city has to offer. You’ll be amazed at how many attractions – museums, zoos, art galleries – are free to the public. Pack a picnic lunch and eat it by a lake or take a day trip bike ride or create your own “Pizza Tour” and sample the various kinds that are available within a short distance from your house. Get creative!
If you’re the kind of person that never seems to be able to pull it together and something always gets in the way, I am going to suggest (strongly) – that you get your calendar out right now and schedule time off for the next year.
The most successful people schedule their personal time off first, and then add their work commitments.
You are a successful person, too.
Wisdom & Worthiness Challenge: Share here when you’ve scheduled your time off and what you plan to do with it. Let’s cheer each other on to taking better care of ourselves!
If you need a suggestion for where to rest, replenish and refresh, I’ve got just the thing for you here.
If you enjoyed this post, please share it using the icons below. Spread the love of our community of worthiness and wisdom!