Question: How many VLs have you filed since the quarantine started? Just because we’re stuck at home doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t use them. If you recognize any of these signs, it may be time to file your next leave.
You’re having trouble sleeping
Have your deadlines got you tossing and turning at night so you’re always tired? This may be a sign to take a break.
In a study commissioned by Air New Zealand, researchers found that after two to three days of vacation, participants reported an average of one hour more of good quality sleep. They also experienced an 80% improvement in their reaction times. You shouldn’t be thinking about work all the time, and if work is keeping you from getting enough sleep, then you should definitely take a day off to rest and recharge.
You get anxious when you hear your notifications
If the endless stream of emails and Viber/WhatsApp/Slack messages are making you want to throw your phone out the window, you’re not alone. Being constantly on-call is one of the pitfalls of working from home, so when you file your leave, turn off all your notifications for the day and reward yourself by doing something you enjoy, like watching your favorite shows or spending some time on a hobby.
You’re making mistakes at work
Ever felt like you’ve forgotten how to properly do your job? That might mean that you’re close to feeling burnt out. Not being able to focus and can lead to mistakes. Take some time to rest so that you can feel energized. After all, a day off is better than sloppy output.
You’ve started being mean to others
Are you starting to get more irritable than usual? Better take a break before you lash out at your family members and workmates. You’re human after all! It’s normal to feel irritated sometimes, but when it starts to affect your general attitude, that may be a sign to take some time off.
You’ve lost all sense of humor
When you can’t laugh at even the simplest jokes anymore, take a break! Losing interest in the things that used to make us happy is a huge red flag. Don’t let work become the reason why you’re starting to feel empty.
You have a difficult time solving even the smallest problems
When you can’t think of possible solutions to even the simplest problems, then maybe your brain just needs a breather. In 2006, Ernst & Young conducted an internal study that found that for each additional 10 hours of vacation time, employees’ year-end performance ratings improved by 8%. Relaxing can let the creative juices start flowing again, so you’d actually be doing your boss a favor by letting yourself rest!
You’re disconnected from your loved ones
One of the most common problems of remote workers is not being able to manage our time. Many of us still keep working even if it’s way past office hours. Remember that your work tasks can wait! Put your phone down and turn your laptop off when it’s time for you to do so and spend time with those who really matter.
You get sick easily
Though staying at home is supposed to help us stay healthy, some of us are getting sick easier because of the stress and lack of sleep. One study from the University of Vienna found that employees who took vacations reported less physical complaints, even five weeks after they returned to work! So take the day off and sleep the whole day if you have to. Always remember to prioritize your health first before everything else.
What are other signs that you should file a leave? Tell us below!
