It’s worth noting that each year, more than half of all working Americans leave some PTO days unused—so workations probably aren’t solely being used as a supplemental strategy.
With the influx of workations, we must remember the power of true vacation time and continue advocating for more of it.
The word “burnout” gets tossed around lightly these days, but it can have serious consequences for mental health. The World Health Organization defines burnout as “chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed,” and research shows that it’s a contributing factor to depression and anxiety. Burnout can also negatively affect your sleep quality, which harms your overall health in countless ways, and can kick off a negative cycle of sleeplessness.
For these reasons, Girgis considers sufficient vacation time an investment in public health. “Otherwise, it is as if we are prisoners and mandated to a schedule that does not allow us to take care of our personal physical and mental health needs,” Girgis says.
Just think about it: If a workation can help you be less stressed, boost your creativity, and even convince you not to quit your job, imagine what a true vacation can do.
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