Article

Investing in Your Vacation

Investing in Your Vacation

Taking a vacation is an investment in your own well-being, in your career, and in the company you work for. Are vacations a priority to you or do you avoid this important investment?  This article takes a look at some of the reasons for skipping vacations, as well as the benefit you might not have considered.

July 1, 2023
Investing in Your Vacation
Important Disclosure: Content on our website and in our newsletters is for informational purposes only. The information provided may (or may not) directly apply to your situation. We recommend that readers work directly with a professional advisor when making decisions in the context of their specific situation.

Why do so many of us not use our vacation days?  Salespeople talk about “leaving money on the table.”  Well, employees often leave vacation on the table.

When we discuss investing, we talk about putting money aside in order to make a profit.  We discuss putting money into stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and so forth.  People also discuss investing in your career, like investing in an education or in a certification.  Maybe we should talk about another investment that could pay dividends in your career, which is, of course, the place where you make your money.  Is investing in vacation a good idea or just hokey, happy idea?

Reasons People Skip Vacations

Why do employees avoid vacation?  There are several reasons people give for missing out on vacation days:

  • The idea that your boss expects constant work and looks down on those “snivelers” who dare to take a break.
  • Allegiance to the idea that hard work is the key, over-arching purpose of life.
  • People worry about not getting that promotion if they take time away from the office.

These reasons are largely self-imposed.  Most managers understand the benefits of vacation to their employees, not only for employee morale but also for his or her performance on the job.  They recognize the benefits of taking time off from work because their employees will be more productive, have better workplace morale, and are more likely to stay. 

Benefits

What are the benefits of taking a vacation?  There are, of course, personal benefits to going on vacation or taking a “staycation,” where you stay at home during your time off.  You can enjoy your life more and become closer to your partner, your kids, and your friends.  You may become physically healthier, too.

However, taking time off can provide substantial benefits for you in your job or career.  To summarize, taking vacations can:

  • Reduce stress, which helps in so many ways.
  • Increase productivity at work, after you return.  Taking a break from work and doing what some have called a “digital detox” refreshes you.
  • Increase creativity, for those times when a better approach or new idea is needed.
  • Improve your relationships with other workers, so that you’re more positive about projects and less likely to be irritable or say things that you regret later.

Of course, things that help you at work also help your company.  Many employers know this, from their experience with other workers and managers who take vacations and then perform better.  So, vacations are not only beneficial to you, but they also benefit your company.

Conclusion

Using your vacation time, and using it wisely, helps you to become a better employee, which can only help your company.  And most managers understand this.  Being a better employee will result, naturally, in a higher salary or a better job. 

Investing in vacation, therefore, is both an investment in your own well-being and in your career and salary.  Remember to invest in your vacation, just as you invest in your retirement, your education, or your house.

Other content you may like

  • Podcast Highlight - New Tool for Clients to Visualize Strategy

    August 31, 2023
    As a way to help clients visualize the big picture during the ups and downs of a long-term financial strategy, the Team introduces a new software tool that does that.
    Read this Article
  • The Positive Start Continues for U.S. Stocks

    The Positive Start Continues for U.S. Stocks

    July 20, 2023
    With a look at the first 6 months of 2023, this overview examines past “positive starts” in the U.S. Stock Market, gives data for the easing of stock volatility, and how the Feds raising rates may affect performance. Included is a deeper look at bonds and retirement income planning, such as U.S. inflation versus cash, bonds and stocks and the importance of withdrawal planning.
    Read this Article
  • Empowering Financial Independence for Women

    Empowering Financial Independence for Women

    June 3, 2024
    Women often face unique financial challenges and need to proactively plan by having a voice in their retirement needs. This article looks at four main financial challenges most women face as they approach retirement. Financial independence is not just about survival – it’s about thriving in every phase of life.
    Read this Article
  • Student of the Market

    Bond Returns After A "Worst" Start

    June 23, 2021
    2021 had the 4th worst start for bonds. This Student of the Market looks at how “Worst Starts” bounce back historically. Combine this with the stats on the 3rd best start for value stocks. Also included are insights for cash on the sidelines, equity fund assets, investing signals, and recent inflation basics.
    Read this Article
  • The link you have selected is located on another server. The linked site contains information that has been created, published, maintained, or otherwise posted by institutions or organizations independent of this organization. We do not endorse, approve, certify, or control any linked websites, their sponsors, or any of their policies, activities, products, or services. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information contained therein. Visitors to any linked websites should not use or rely on the information contained therein until they have consulted with an independent financial professional. Please click “Continue to Link” to leave this website and proceed to the selected site.
    phone-handset