Some employees eagerly use all their vacation days each year, but others hold back. It may seem surprising, but 52% of Americans planned to leave some of their vacation time unused in 2016, according to a survey conducted by Bankrate. Even worse — many of these employees intended to have at least one week worth of unused days left at the end of the year.

If any of your staffers are hesitant to use their PTO, it’s in your best interested to step in and force them to take a much-needed break.

Four Benefits of Taking Vacation Days

Relax and Recharge

Employees become exhausted when they constantly push themselves without a break. Since they’re only human, overworked employees eventually run out of steam and become notably unproductive. Consequently, 77% of HR professionals — director level and higher — believe employees who use all or most of their vacation time are more productive than their all work and no play colleagues, according to a 2013 study conducted by the Society of Human Resource Management, for Project: Time Off.

Boost Creativity

Tired minds function on autopilot, so don’t expect too many innovative ideas from employees who rarely leave their desk. Beyond allowing people to unwind, taking vacation days puts people in a different setting that can stimulate the mind. Getting beyond the confines of office sparks creativity, so you’ll notice a difference in everyone upon their return — even those who opt for a staycation. In total, 70% of HR directors surveyed said taking vacation is essential to rouse a spark of creativity.

Greater Job Satisfaction

If an employee works round-the-clock, there’s a good chance they’ll eventually grow to resent their job. Working constantly turns once happy staffers into burned out zombies, because it’s hard to enjoy anything in a perpetual state of fatigue. To drive this point home, an overwhelming 78% of HR directors surveyed by the SHRM believe taking vacation time is linked to higher levels of job satisfaction.

Improved Health

When employees push themselves nonstop, it takes a toll on their health. Most HR professionals — 58% — surveyed by the SHRM said employees who use all or most of their vacation days typically take less sick days than those who opt out of taking PTO they’ve rightfully earned.

Make sure you have time to use up your own vacation days this year by partnering with ECS to manage your contingent workforce. We offer client management, staffing insurance, employment services, and consulting to employers like you. Contact us today to learn more!