It might seem that most people take their vacation time and understand the importance and benefits of taking time off work – but this is incorrect. Most North Americans do not use their entire vacation time during the year due to fear of falling behind and other concerns. However, there are many proven benefits to taking vacation time, such as the following:

1. Stress reduction in general and on the job
2. Better focus and increased productivity
3. Heart health (lower risk of coronary heart disease and lower blood pressure)
4. An increase in happiness
5. Better sleep and more energy at work
6. An improvement in work-life balance, as you are allocating more time to yourself and your family rather than your employer

Source: Occupational Safety Group Inc.