We've witnessed such significant transformations in work patterns in less than two years that the old paradigm of five-day workdays in the office appears to be a thing of the past. And among the discussions over how, where, and when to work, the idea of a shortened workweek is gradually gaining traction. Recent research in Iceland on a four-day workweek has shown "overwhelming success", with staff morale and productivity at a record high. Microsoft Japan made headlines with the same study, wherein their employees worked four (rather than five) days a week for a month, boosting their productivity by 40%.
Significant breaks from work have been known to improve productivity, which necessitates the importance of a vacation. You must occasionally let go of working on your business if you want to expand it into something that functions independently of you. Every successful entrepreneur understands the benefits of a vacation and its direct influence on the productivity of employees. This holds especially true during this time of the year. Taking time off during holidays helps you clear your head before the new year begins. Here are four more benefits of a vacation during this time of year:
You lose your efficacy as a leader when you never disconnect from the office or your work. To be productive, you must approach each day with an open mind. Work will start to seem flat if you come in every day to the same thing, merely rushing to keep the wheels spinning. You run the danger of losing the spark that drives you to be the best at what you do. Thus, take time off during holidays to give your body, heart, and mind the much-needed break. Recharge with a meaningful time with family and friends and draw energy from sources other than your business.
You began your company with ideas, inspiration, passion and zeal. However, as the routine sets in, you tend to lose room for creativity. As a result, you feel stuck, doing business the same way you did right from the start. This stresses the importance of a vacation. Taking time off during the holidays helps you establish a well-defined yearly plan that will help your team succeed the next year.
To be clear, this is not about taking advantage of your vacation time to construct a to-do list for your business. This is about approaching a blank sheet of paper with a beginner's mentality. If you let your thoughts wander freely, the consequences will be far better for you and your business.
Do you recall the day you launched your company? You had motivation, an emotional attachment and a good reason to do what you set out to do. The holidays are a good time to ask yourself if your goal is still crystal clear. One of the benefits of a vacation is that it allows you to reconnect with your mission and pursue it further.
Getting some distance from your firm helps us to view it for what it is, for better or worse. On the one hand, you can see what you're grateful for as a business owner more clearly. Or this could be your opportunity to refuel and realign your goals. Taking time off during holidays will ultimately benefit your company.
Need some help with your business? Reach out to MCC Coaching and we will help you transform your business. Happy holidays!