Now that summer’s here, many professionals experience a natural slowdown in their business. This presents the perfect opportunity to take a breather, recharge and enjoy some well-deserved time off. Vacation time isn’t always about travelling. It’s about prioritizing self-care, avoiding burnout and using your Group benefits. Yet, despite the availability of vacation days and benefits, many professionals hesitate to take their paid time off (PTO). Instead, they often bank vacation days rather than use them.
In this article, we highlight the value of encouraging breaks and supporting a healthy workplace. We also offer practical insights for employers and explain how your Group benefits can maximize your team’s time away from work.
The benefits of taking time off
Encouraging employees to take vacation days is crucial for their mental and physical wellness. Studies consistently show that employees who take time to recharge return to work feeling more resilient. According to a 2022 study by SkyNova, utilizing PTO leads to higher job satisfaction and improved performance. Canadian burnout rates drop by 37.4%.
Taking time off can have massive returns on investment. Paid time off (PTO) is a structured benefit designed to encourage employees to prioritize their wellbeing, allowing for guilt-free breaks from work. Whether it’s for a family vacation, personal projects or some much-needed rest, PTO allows your team to disconnect, recharge and return to work with increased morale and energy. Here are a few key points to consider:
Preventing burnout by supporting time off work
Regular breaks are essential for preventing burnout. Burnout can lead to health issues and decreased productivity. By encouraging employees to take time off, you allow them to step back and improve their wellbeing.
For many employees, planning for time off can feel like a challenge. Juggling tasks, meeting deadlines, managing team needs and dealing with daily stressors can be overwhelming. The good news is that with appropriate planning and open communication with you, these challenges are manageable. You can also share resources like our guide: Why employee PTO should be prioritized.
Being a leadership position, you can set a positive example by taking time off for yourself. Let your team know that taking time off to recharge is an expectation, not a weakness. This sends a message that you value your team’s wellbeing. By actively promoting time away over the summer, you set everyone up for success in the upcoming months.
Support family connection and self care
Summer offers the perfect backdrop for quality family time. Employers can encourage their teams to take vacation days for weekend BBQs, local day trips or simply enjoying lazy afternoons together. This time spent with family is invaluable and strengthens relationships, while supporting your team member’s wellness.
Participation in social activities can regulate emotional wellbeing. It helps create bonds that help everyone cope with daily stressors in the office. Encouraging your employees to value this time can lead to a more cohesive and motivated team.
Encourage your team to pursue their passions
Vacation days are an opportunity for employees to dive into home projects they’ve been eager to tackle. Employers should encourage this! Whether it’s organizing their garage, planting a garden or giving their space a fresh look, these accomplishments provide a satisfying sense of achievement.
People can take this break to engage in hobbies that bring them joy. Whether they’re aspiring chefs, artists or sports enthusiasts, taking time to pursue passions will help your team members unwind and reduce stress. Using vacation or flex days for personal projects can help your employees return to work with renewed focus and inspiration.
Practical travel tips to maximize vacation time and benefits
If your team members decide to take a trip this summer, using the travel insurance included in your employee benefits plan means one less thing to worry about. They’ll be covered from the start, allowing them to focus on the perks of their getaway. Here are some practical tips employers can share with their team members:
- Plan ahead: Whether they’re going on a road trip or booking flights, having a plan helps avoid last-minute stress. Researching destinations, checking accommodations and creating an itinerary can simplify their travel experience.
- Use resources wisely: Employees should check their benefits card and member site to maximize their available benefits. Encourage them to explore spending accounts to ensure they’re utilizing their annual allocations. Wellness spending accounts and PTO are investments in their overall health and wellbeing.
- Local adventures: Encourage employees to explore nearby destinations and support the local economy without the effort of long-distance travel. Utilizing wellness spending accounts for local experiences like nature hikes or camping trips can stretch their budgets and lead to memorable retreats.
How your Group benefits support time away
Whether your employees plan to travel or have a staycation, the resources available through your Group benefits can make holiday adventures more budget-friendly and enjoyable. Here are a few benefits to highlight:
Wellness spending accounts: Many employers offer wellness spending accounts that cover activities like cooking classes, camping gear, fitness equipment or even wellness retreats. Encourage employees to leave nothing on the table and utilize their annual benefit, as unused balances can’t be carried over to the next year.
Travel insurance: Many professionals are unaware that their group plan already includes travel coverage. This acts as a safety net, ensuring they’re covered for emergencies while on the road. Encourage your team to learn more about their coverage options in their member accounts. Depending on your Group plan, they might also have insurance for trip interruptions or baggage loss.
Use your benefits for time off this summer
This summer offers the chance to embrace the slower pace many professionals crave. It’s the perfect opportunity for employers to empower their teams to use vacation days and relax. Whether it’s a weekend road trip, a family vacation or a low-key staycation, encourage them to explore new experiences and create lasting memories.
Keep in mind that your employee benefits are designed to enhance their personal time. Promoting the use of these resources allows your team to return to work feeling rested and ready to tackle new challenges.
For more information on how to maximize your employees’ wellness through Group benefits, please visit the Group Benefits page.
