As you read this article, I am comfortably nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Maine, savoring a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. I write this from a serene waterfront at my favorite B&B, The Inn at Sunrise Point; my thoughts resonate with the waves’ rhythmic ebb and flow.

This narrative isn’t designed to trigger envy or to laud the pleasures of a vacation but to underscore a critical facet of our professional and personal lives that many of us, in the relentless pursuit of success, often neglect: vacation time.

In our society, a culture of ‘busyness’ has been glorified. The expectation to be perpetually engaged, constantly connected, and always ‘on’ has become an implicit norm. This, coupled with the accelerating pace of digital transformation, has blurred the boundaries between work and life, amplifying stress levels and stoking the flames of burnout.

While resilience is celebrated as the panacea to combat stress and prevent burnout, it is essential to understand that resilience isn’t an inexhaustible resource. It needs to be continually replenished. And one of the most effective ways to do so is by taking regular vacations.

Refueling Resilience: A Vacation’s Role

Resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity, stress, or substantial changes, isn’t just built in a day. The accumulation of constant mental, emotional, and physical efforts enables us to weather life’s storms. And just as we recharge our devices when they run low on battery, we must also recharge our resilience.

Here’s where vacations come into play. A vacation isn’t merely an escape from work. It is an opportunity to reset, refresh, and recharge. By stepping away from our regular work environment, we allow ourselves the space and time to momentarily disengage from professional responsibilities and expectations, which holds immense power.

The restoration theory posits that being in an environment different from the usual helps the brain restore its cognitive abilities. Unplugging from work, indulging in activities that bring joy, or simply doing nothing all contribute to restoring our cognitive functions, thereby refueling our resilience.

The Productivity Paradox: Less Work, More Output

Contrary to the belief that taking a vacation might lead to a loss in productivity, research has consistently indicated that time off boosts productivity. A study by the Boston Consulting Group found that high-level professionals who were required to take time off were significantly more productive than those who spent more time working.

When we allow ourselves to relax, we rejuvenate our minds and bodies. This rejuvenation leads to increased energy, improved mood, and enhanced creativity upon return, improving work performance. As the saying goes, “We should measure productivity not by the hours we pour into a job but by the energy and creativity we bring to our work.”

Building a Resilient Culture: An Organizational Imperative

With the mounting evidence underscoring the importance of vacation time, it is an organizational imperative to promote a culture that values and encourages time off. Companies must move away from promoting a culture of constant work and instead foster an environment that values balance.

Leaders should set an example by taking regular time off and openly sharing about it, thus normalizing the practice within the team. Encouraging employees to utilize their vacation days without guilt, stress, or fear of judgment is an investment in their resilience and, by extension, the company’s success.

As I unwind amidst Maine’s tranquil beauty, I can already sense a surge in my creativity, energy, and happiness levels. This vacation is not a luxury or an indulgence. It is an investment.