In the last week, there’s been a notable surge in interest regarding maximising annual leave, with search demand rising 20% as people start to consider their 2025 plans.
Although the prospect of a holiday and time off appeals to some, recent data shows that many people are not maximising their annual leave.
A recent survey revealed that 61% of UK workers didn’t use up all of their annual leave in 2023, despite full-time workers in the UK being entitled to 20 days of paid leave a year (not including bank holidays). This oversight can have severe consequences on both employee health and wellbeing and also company productivity.
Helen Godliman, head of HR operations at The Instant Group comments: “Annual leave is essential for maintaining long-term productivity and well-being. In flexible workspaces, we see how a well-rested individual, who has the freedom to step away and recharge, returns more focused, creative, and engaged.”
“Taking time off isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. In flexible work environments, we understand the value of annual leave in preventing burnout and promoting sustained performance. A balanced approach to work and rest is key to long-term success.”
The Benefits of taking annual leave:
- Improved Mental and Physical Health
Taking regular breaks allows employees to recharge and reduce stress levels. This can lead to better mental health, improved mood, and enhanced physical wellbeing.
- Increased Productivity
A well-rested employee is more focused, motivated, and productive. Time off helps in clearing the mind, allowing individuals to return to work with renewed energy and creativity.
- Better Work-Life Balance
Annual leave provides an opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends, pursue hobbies, or simply relax. This balance is essential for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life outside of work.
- Enhanced Job Satisfaction
Employees who use their annual leave tend to have higher job satisfaction rates. Feeling valued and supported by their employers, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their roles.
- Economic Benefits
Unused annual leave can result in financial losses for both employees and employers. When employees do not take their leave, they may forfeit paid time off, while employers could face increases turnover rates and lower employee retention due to burnout.
How to Plan and Utilise Your Leave Effectively
If you’re not accustomed to utilising your annual leave it can be difficult to know where to start. Think about the times of year that you’re often busiest socially and start planning in days then. Consider taking an extended break at some point during the financial year, allowing yourself 1 or 2 weeks completely switched off from work.
You can also maximise your paid leave by combining it with public holidays, for example, taking Thursday and Friday off before a bank holiday weekend, giving yourself 5 days off from work.
Additionally, prioritise self-care during your time off by engaging in activities that you enjoy and spending time with people you love. By doing so, you can help maintain a good level of mental wellbeing and encourage a good work life balance.
More About Instant Offices: Instant Offices is the world’s largest office advisory service dedicated to finding the ideal flexible workspace for our clients – wherever their business is going.
We cover the global serviced office market, and our talented people are market specialists, enabling them to offer free, impartial advice to help find your dream workspace and negotiate the best deal for your business.
How to get the most time off in 2025
