In this pandemic, it’s never been more important to take time off. Time off looks different for everyone. Do you like taking long walks, reading a book not related to work, streaming an entire series you have been pining for, or maybe even bunging jumping? As a leader, it’s crucial for you to take time to do what you enjoy outside of work. Leaders deserve to take breaks too. There are many benefits to stepping away from the business for a while.
In the past, taking a break was often seen as detrimental to your career. Americans have been notorious for not taking advantage of their vacation time. On the contrary, research has found that taking time for yourself is one of the best ways to become a stronger leader.
Using your vacation time can help you become more creative, allowing you to develop new and exciting business ideas. Psychology Today states, “Working for long stretches without breaks leads to stress and exhaustion. Taking breaks refreshes the mind, replenishes your mental resources, and helps you become more creative.” People are more creative when they have taken a step back from their work. So, if you know you need to come up with a new business idea in the coming months, taking a vacation might be the best way to renew your perspective. It will enable you to see the issues you have to confront from a different point of view.
Stepping away from work also prevents burnout. As a successful leader, you may sometimes feel the pressure to be the first person to arrive in the morning and the last to leave. Burnout is a prevalent issue amongst many leaders, but it doesn’t have to be. Take time for yourself, step away from your work, and come back ready to tackle the job once again.
Taking time away not only helps you, but it also allows your staff to lead while you are away. They’re not taking your job, but they are being given a chance to utilize leadership skills they might not have known they have. Your holiday time allows your team to exercise the skills you have been nurturing and mentoring.
Increasing creativity, combatting burnout, and providing professional development opportunities are all benefits of leaders taking a break and going on vacation. Our present circumstances may make you hesitant about being away for a few days, but it will be worth it. When you return, you will have a clearer mind, feel rejuvenated, and be ready to take on the challenges that never seem to end.