Keeping track of work on the computer while on vacation reduces its positive effects
Al Arabiya.net – Jamal Nazi
Posted on: August 01, 2023: 07:37 PM GST Last updated: August 01, 2023: 07:59 PM GST
Since the pandemic, the way people live and work has changed dramatically. Not to mention a lot of stress for some, which is not good for the body and brain. Most research indicates that time off work is beneficial for mental health, motivation, cognition, creativity, job performance, and even relationships, according to Psychology Today.
Studies also indicate that focusing on vacation activities on buying meals outside and concerts achieves a greater sense of happiness than shopping for clothes, jewelry and appliances. The results of the studies are consistent with the ancient wisdom that what matters in life are the memories of beautiful and meaningful experiences that enable a person to overcome the difficulties in their life. Some research also suggests that simply planning a vacation can improve your mood.
In a 2023 study, researchers found that vacation increases daily sleep and light and moderate to vigorous physical activity. The effect on sleep also persisted after the two-week vacation, and the changes were smaller for shorter vacations (less than 3 days). In another study on the fading effect of vacation, survey results indicated that work engagement increased significantly and fatigue decreased rapidly, but the effects only lasted for one month.
Another interesting research question was how to get the most out of vacation, which researchers sought to answer in a 2021 study. Researchers discovered that if a person does some meditation while on vacation, it may help prevent the rapid erosion of the positive effects of the vacation.
One study suggests that if a person is from northern countries, they should go on a two-week vacation to the tropics to get the most benefits. With regard to the appropriate length of vacations, there is not much agreement in this area, as some studies indicate that even three days of vacation can be beneficial. In another study, researchers examined the effect of the duration of leave from work on work stress and burnout, and the results indicated that the positive effect of annual leave is the same for holidays of more than 10 days and shorter leaves (from 7 to 10 days). Some other studies suggest that the positive effect of vacation may last longer for people with low-stress jobs.
There is often no definitive answer to how to have a great vacation with lasting benefits, as it comes down to very individual differences and preferences regarding the time, place, and activities a person does or does not want to do. It also depends on the level of stress from the job, the ability to handle that stress and the ability to fully relax when one goes on vacation, which is not easy for many people. Some even make the mistake of taking their computers on vacation to keep up with what’s going on in their workplace. This behavior can cause great stress on the vacation and may reduce its positive effects.
2023-08-01 15:37:00
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