No More All Work, No Play

Did you know that out of the 30+ richest nations in the world, the U.S. is the only one that does not require that employers provide paid vacation time to workers? Yet more than half of those that do receive paid time off, don’t use it all.

Despite the fact that studies continue to show that taking a vacation is good for you, many US workers are reluctant to use their time for fear of being seen as less dedicated to their job, or the feeling that their workload is too heavy.

Taking a vacation or even just taking a break from your work is good for you, both physically and psychologically. Your stress levels are lowered, your mind has a chance to clear, and your mood gets a good lift. This list can go on.

Let’s take this a step further—taking a break from your work improves your work.

The impact of an all work, no play mindset tends to stifle creativity and ingenuity.

Perhaps it’s time to reflect upon the philosophical implications of a position that sees paid vacation time as a perk as compared with the position that it is an essential right of every member of society so that they can recharge themselves by doing something relaxing and non-work related for an extended period of time.

As we officially begin the summer season, I wonder just how many people will be texting, calling, emailing or tweeting while supposedly spending the afternoon on the beach with family and friends. Why not take this time to change that mindset of constantly working and the never-ending job to relaxing and fun experiences and interactions with friends and family.

As a self-employed person, I too need to address this issue. Can I really take two weeks at the beach this summer without bringing work along? It’s an epidemic. What do you think?