In 2013, U.S. workers left 169 million paid vacation days unused, costing them $52.4 billion, or about $504 per worker. This happens because many vacation policies don’t allow days to roll over. In 2014, 42% of Americans didn’t take any paid vacation days at all.
These statistics are concerning because U.S. workers already put in more hours than people in many other countries and get fewer vacation days to begin with. This needs to change.
I used to be guilty of this too. I often left vacation days unused because I worried it would look like I didn’t care about my job or was abusing the company’s policy. In hindsight, that was a mistake. I could have been much happier if I’d taken more time off.
Many people leave vacation days unused every year, and there are several reasons why this is a bad idea:
1. **You deserve the vacation time.**
Vacation days are given for a reason: they benefit both the employee and the company. By not using them, you’re essentially working for free on those days. Calculate how much money you’re losing by not taking your vacation days.
2. **You’re not risking your career.**
A report by Oxford Economics found that employees who don’t use their vacation days aren’t more likely to get raises or bonuses. In fact, those who use all their vacation days are more likely to receive bonuses.
3. **You don’t have to spend a lot of money to take time off.**
Many people avoid using vacation days because they think they can’t afford a trip. But you don’t have to travel to use your vacation days. A staycation can be just as refreshing. Enjoy your city or simply relax at home. You can also use credit card rewards to make vacations more affordable.
4. **You’ll perform better at work.**
Taking vacation days can make you more motivated, refreshed, and creative. Your brain needs a break, and time off can provide that.
5. **You’re hurting your health by not taking vacation days.**
Working all the time without breaks can harm your health, making you more prone to illness, heart disease, depression, and poor fitness. Using your vacation days can improve your health and allow you to have fun.
Have you ever left unused vacation days on the table? Why or why not? What’s your company’s vacation policy?