The Power of Taking a Real Vacation
People who take genuine time off enjoy improved focus, higher productivity, and enhanced well-being. Yet, many people find themselves unable to fully disconnect, which diminishes the benefits of vacation. With careful planning and a commitment to unplug, you can set yourself up for a truly restorative experience that yields long-lasting benefits.
Science and Benefits
Research supports the health benefits of taking real vacations. Extended time away from daily routines allows the brain to shift from “focused mode” to a relaxed state, which reduces cortisol levels, increases creativity, and strengthens cognitive functions like problem-solving. Studies from Project: Time Off found that people who took less than 10 vacation days per year had lower chances of a raise or bonus compared to those who took full vacation time, highlighting how taking breaks enhances long-term performance. Even brief, fully disconnected vacations reduce risk factors for metabolic syndrome, improve heart health, and support mental health.
Here are a Few Tips to Help You Get Away and Recharge
Plan Early and Build Anticipation: Research indicates that planning a vacation boosts mental health by offering a sense of excitement. Think about where you want to go, who you’d like to be with, and the activities you want to enjoy. Lock in your plans and communicate them with loved ones, allowing anticipation to build.
Set Clear Boundaries with Work: Inform your team and manager of your absence well in advance. Set an out-of-office email that includes a message like, “I am on vacation. I will not check email, so if it’s important, please resend it upon my return.” Stick to this by deleting all incoming messages upon your return, which creates a clean slate.
Consciously Disconnect: During your time off, avoid all work-related tasks and digital distractions. Research supports the practice of moving between “all-in” periods of technology use and intentional disengagement, helping to prevent habitual device checking. Consider setting daily hours to remain completely offline and give your mind the chance to truly relax.
Enjoy Unstructured Time: True vacations allow for activities unrelated to work productivity, such as exploring nature, engaging in new hobbies, or simply unwinding without an agenda. By letting go of rigid schedules, you encourage relaxation, spontaneity, and moments of genuine joy.
Conclusion and Key Action Item
A real vacation is essential to restoring your energy and achieving peak performance. By committing to unplug and embracing the opportunity for deep rest, you’ll return to your daily life with enhanced clarity, creativity, and resilience. Start planning your next break —your health and productivity will thank you.
This article is based on my Rest Refocus Recharge book. If you want to learn more about rest, recovery and regeneration for healthy peak performance you can order the book here.
