5 Reasons to Give People A Break During The Holidays

With the holiday season just around the corner, you might be torn between giving your people a break or continuing business operations to make sure deadlines are met. Some of your employees may actually want to work.?

In 2020, people were working longer hours than usual , according to the National Bureau of Economic Research. But despite working more during the pandemic, Americans take fewer breaks. In a separate survey , most employees report having shortened or canceled their planned time off.?

This isn’t about whether your employees want to take a break: It’s about whether they need a break. Giving your people breaks during this holiday is good for them and for your business. Here’s why:?

People who take breaks are more productive.

Studies have shown that people who take vacations are more efficient than those who don’t. Taking a vacation reduces stress, increases happiness/success at work and home.?

Despite the urgency of deadlines, we aren’t as focused at work because we’re thinking of spending time with our loved ones. Do your business and your employees a favor by giving them a week off away from work. They’ll return to work more focused and productive... That’s the best way to start a year!

Taking a break eliminates unnecessary expenses.?

Business is usually slow for most companies during holidays. Staying open during the holiday may mean spending more since the incoming revenue won’t be enough to cover the daily operating expenses.?

Who doesn’t want happier and healthier employees?!?

Research shows that taking vacations is good for one’s health and well-being. People who take vacations also experience a lower risk of heart disease and lower stress levels. The research also indicates that these people are also more motivated to achieve goals and have a better outlook in life.?

You should make sure each of your employees takes a vacation at least once a year. Giving them a week off this holiday means you’re giving your people time to rest and recuperate. A week off from work-related stress is good for the heart, mind and body. It will help prevent year-end burnout.?

Moreover, spending time with loved ones during the holiday improves relationships, and enjoying healthy personal relationships can translate into better performance at work. Ultimately, making sure your people get a break during this holiday is one of the most effective ways of keeping them happy .?

Giving your people a break shows them that it’s OK to take time off.

Americans often leave most of their vacation days unused despite having less vacation time than other countries. It’s not because we don’t like to rest, unwind or travel: It has more to do with a work culture that places emphasis on hard work as a key to success.

Giving your employees a break this holiday sends a clear message that taking some time off will not get in the way of having a successful career. You, being the leader, should set the tone. Seeing you use your days off communicates to them that you approve of them using their time off too.?

It also shows that you can empathize with them because everyone wants to spend time with their loved ones and take a break every now and then, especially during the holidays..

Truly caring about your employees’ well-being is great in the long run.

Cultivating a caring culture in your company makes a huge difference. It’s a great way of attracting top talent and retaining employees. Your employees will love you for giving them a week off during the holidays. It’s one way of showing them that you care about their personal lives in addition to their role at your company.?

Give us a break!

After another year of stressful, uncertain times, we could all use a break to recuperate. Please use your time off and spend time with your loved ones, and encourage your people to do the same.?

Being a human leader by example is showing your employees that you put them first and they should put themselves first too.?

In love and respect,

Hilary Corna