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

  • Are Good Grades the Key to College Admissions

    Are Good Grades the Key to College Admissions?

    April 11, 2023
    While it may be true that your child needs to be a good student to compete for admission to a college or university, did you know there are steps you can take to increase their odds for being accepted? Another big consideration is how your child can prepare for the long-term success of their higher education experience.
    Read this Article
  • IRA Contribution Deadline

    Contribute to an IRA Before the May 17th Deadline

    April 12, 2021
    Tax rules are ever-changing. A new deadline is looming for contributions to an IRA. Now taxpayers of all ages may be able to claim a deduction of on their 2020 tax return for their IRA made through May 17, 2021. More details can be found in this article.
    Read this Article
  • 5 Steps to a Fruitful Financial Future

    5 Steps to a Fruitful Financial Future

    October 10, 2024
    As you prepare your home for cooler weather or harvest the final fruits of your summer labor, Fall is an ideal time to evaluate and prepare for your financial future as well. Here are 5 steps you can take this season to help prepare for a more stable and prosperous financial future.
    Read this Article
  • February is a Great Time to File Your Taxes

    February is a Great Time to File Your Taxes

    February 6, 2024
    Here are tax tips to help you make sure your money is working for you, not Uncle Sam. The first step is to start filing as early as you can, making February a great time to receive a refund quickly. There are other options outlined if you owe taxes or cannot make the April 15th deadline, along with ideas on how to avoid penalties and fines.
    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