Why it’s important to take annual leave even when you can’t go on holiday

Holidays are on hold, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be using our holiday days.

Even as other countries start to reopen, the UK Government's advice remains the same: do not travel unless absolutely essential. For those who do venture overseas, a 14-day mandatory quarantine will greet them on return.

Add to that the 8.4 million on furlough and the 1.5 million claims for universal credit made between March 13 and April 9 - six times the amount during the same time period last year - and it's clear many of us won't be able to afford to go on holiday any time soon either.

But that doesn't mean you should let your hard earned annual leave go to waste.

“Taking time out for rest and relaxation is important – perhaps more now than ever,” career coach and consultant Hannah Salton tells the Standard.

“Many people had grand plans for exotic holidays in 2020, only to find themselves with limited opportunities for holiday. It can be tempting (if employers allow it) to cancel our annual leave, but this may not be the best plan.”

Denise Bosquem, Life Coach Directory member, agrees. She says holidays and time off work are essential for both our mental and physical wellbeing.

“When we have something to look forward to, it energises us; it excites us. Doing the same thing day in and day out is not only wearing but can also lead to burnout and low mood. We crave new things, 'rewards', the brain loves novelty, so it's stimulating,” Bosquem adds.

“When we have a day off, let's say a bank holiday, it is important to see it as a bit special. Doing something that you wouldn't normally do, it's a physical and emotional break from the daily grind. After a day off, we are generally more productive, more focused and energised. We feel as if we deserved our break and got our 'reward'.”

What should I do with my annual leave days?

Salton says to be ‘creative’ when it comes to taking your staycation days and to reward yourself during your break. She suggests themed Zoom parties with friends, celebrating with an elaborate treasure hunt for your household, creating a holiday at home (think cocktails, great food and as much horizontal reading as you can), or making a list of all the books and films you haven’t been able to read or watch yet, creating your own cultural bucket list.

Bosquem suggests visiting places in your area that you’ve never been to before or taking up a virtual class of something you love, whether it's yoga, salsa dancing or even terrarium making.

Staycation days are all about doing what you want to and on your time and it's worth making sure you have a break every now and again, even just to mentally reset.