The pressure of workplace deadlines can mean taking a break feels like an indulgence. You might feel guilty about taking time off, worried that it will make you appear uncommitted or unreliable. However, taking leave from work is not only important but also necessary for your well-being. Here's why taking leave from work is important and why you should absolutely not feel guilty about it.
Just remember that if you need support or someone to talk to about workplace stress, our Sonder support team is available 24/7 to chat whenever you need it.
Why you need to take those leave days, even if you don't go on holiday:
Firstly, taking leave from work helps to reduce stress and prevent burnout. When you are constantly working without taking a break, it can lead to exhaustion and burnout, both physically and mentally. This can result in decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even illness. Taking leave allows you to recharge and refresh, reducing stress levels and preventing burnout.
Studies have shown that taking annual leave improves employee productivity by up to 40% and reduces the likelihood of sick leave by 28%. What's not to love?
Secondly, taking leave from work allows you to spend quality time with family and friends, which is essential for your mental health. Being able to relax and connect with loved ones can help you feel more fulfilled and happier. Spending time with family and friends can also provide a sense of support, which can be particularly helpful during difficult times.
Thirdly, taking leave from work can help you to pursue your hobbies and interests, which can be beneficial for your overall wellbeing. Engaging in activities that you enjoy can help to reduce stress, increase happiness and provide a sense of purpose. This, in turn, can improve your performance at work and enhance your overall quality of life.
Finally, taking leave from work is necessary for your physical health. Regular breaks allow you to attend medical appointments, engage in physical activity, and get enough sleep. Neglecting these aspects of your health can have long-term consequences that can negatively impact your performance at work.
Despite the benefits of taking leave from work, many people feel guilty about doing so. They worry about letting their colleagues down, falling behind on work or being viewed as unreliable. However, it is important to remember that taking leave is not a sign of weakness or lack of commitment. It is a crucial part of maintaining your well-being and ensuring that you can perform at your best.
If you are struggling with guilt about taking leave from work, there are some steps you can take to help overcome these feelings.
Communicate with your colleagues and manager about your need for time off. This will help to ensure that they are aware of your absence and can plan accordingly. Be clear with your manager about what you will be able to do before you leave and what will have to wait.
Plan ahead and ensure that your work is in a good state before you take leave. This will help to reduce any anxiety about falling behind on work.
Finally, remind yourself that taking leave is not only important for your well-being but also necessary for your productivity and success at work.
You can't be your best at work if you're burned out and stressed out. Taking leave may not cure all your workplace woes, but it's a helpful starting point.
If you have any questions or need extra support, we're here to help you anytime in any language. Simply start a chat with us via the home screen of the Sonder app.
Information sourced from: The Conversation, Heads Up, Forbes, Everyday Health.
Image credit: Link Hoang/Unsplash.
All content is created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.