Going back from vacation can be like taking an emotional punch. Perhaps you are taking a break from work in the wrong way.
Taking vacation at work has one before, one now and one after, all very different.
The anticipation makes us happy. Think about the holidays. Yearn for them. “Just one more week and I will do nothing”; Then the holidays arrive and we are as we wanted; And then… they are over, and we get stuck in a sense of “hangover”, depressed and more tired than before.
But after all, why do the holidays, which should be repaired by every way, are kicking back to work with a desire to return? Psychologists have an answer: We don’t know how to take a vacation.
Three things we are doing bad
So what makes a vacation truly reparative? Although researchers have not yet identified a perfect formula, studies offer important clues about how to structure a work break that really works, explains psychologist, sociologist and expert in economic behaviors, Rebekka Grun, no.
Taking vacation is not to get away (only) physically
One of the most consistent conclusions of vacation investigations is the importance of turning off the psychological of work.
Physically moving away is not enough-it is essential to disconnect mentally. This means impulse To check emails, respond to messages or review and mention stressful situations of work during the holidays.
However, not all work -related thoughts are harmful. Positive reflections – such as remembering a project that you are proud or recognized your skills – may even help.
Rest is not (just) doing nothing
Another important ingredient for quality vacation is the combination of relaxation and surrounding or new experiences.
Although restoring rest and sleep is fundamental, vacation that include new and engaging activities – such as learn something new or explore unknown places – tend to bring more lasting benefits.
These more active activities can generate a sense of fulfillment and renew the mind in ways that purely passive leisure (such as watching television for hours or spending days lying on the beach) cannot provide. The right balance between rest and involvement seems to be more effective than isolated rest.
Quality is worth more than the amount
Contrary to popular belief, longer vacation are not always better.
Studies show us that the psychological benefits of holidays often reach peak during their own rest period and disappear two to four weeks after their return, the psychologist recalls.
Stress and tiredness can return quickly if the work environment remains demanding and uncontrolled.
What matters most is not the duration, but the way time is used.
A well -planned short break can be more restorative than long but poorly organized vacation. In truth, shorter and more frequent breaks throughout the year can be more effective to maintain well-being than a single prolonged escape.
