Despite the perhaps obvious benefits to getting away from the workplace for a week or two, more than half of people have been found to prioritise work over a holiday with loved ones, according to new research from hospitality company Diamond Resorts International.

The survey of over 2000 people over the age of 25 reveals that 63 percent of workers have no plans for a holiday this year, while 52 percent reported that they didn’t take all of their holiday allocation for 2014, often forfeiting more than seven days of annual allowance.

Leigh Vinocur, managing director at Diamond Resorts International, believes that the benefit in wellbeing comes from the idea of taking a break. She said:

“The excitement we feel during the planning stages of a vacation, and the anticipation experienced while looking forward to the time away can be just as important mentally and physically as the actual vacation. Consider it a mental getaway, if you will.

“The vacation, of course, is also beneficial in many ways. Being unplugged, spending time with family, friends or just by yourself does wonders for our well-being.”

Taking annual holidays can increase job satisfaction, the research found. 76 percent of those who go on holiday at least once a year report feeling more satisfied and happy with their lives overall, compared to 43 percent of those who don’t get away.

While employees sacrificing their annual leave may seem like a benefit to employers in terms of man hours, it could result in an increase of work-related stress for employees that ultimately harms productivity.

Diamond Resorts International has identified the ‘Top 5 Reasons Holidays Are Essential’ based on the survey results:

  1. Holidays Can Make You Feel Sexier: 80 percent of people who go on annual holidays report that ‘romance is alive in their relationship’, compared to 56 percent who never go away
  2. Holidays Can Make You Feel Happier: 76 percent of yearly holidaymakers report feeling ‘happy’ or ‘extremely happy’ compared to just 43 percent of those who never take a holiday
  3. Holidays Can Make You Feel Energised: 72 percent of yearly holidaymakers report feeling ‘energised and full of life all the time’ compared to just 34 percent of those who never take a holiday
  4. Holidays Can Make You Feel Better About Your Job: 71 percent of yearly holidaymakers report feeling ‘satisfied to very satisfied with their job’ compared to just 46 percent of those who never take a holiday.
  5. Holidays Can Make You Feel Healthier: 56 percent of yearly holidaymakers describe their health as ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’ compared to 28 percent of those who never take a holiday.

 

 

 

 

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Steff Humm

Steff joined the HRreview editorial team in November 2014. A former event coordinator and manager, Steff has spent several years working in online journalism. She is a graduate of Middlessex University with a BA in Television Production and will complete a Master's degree in Journalism from the University of Westminster in the summer of 2015.