Workplace

last updated 8 January 2015

Summer is usually synonymous with vacation, but “this year may be different,” said John Blake in CNN.com. Never mind the expense. As the recession continues to wreak havoc on companies large and small, many workers worry that spending too much time out of the office makes them easier targets for layoffs. But depriving yourself of vacation won’t necessarily earn you bonus points with the boss. “Overworked employees get sick more often and place themselves at risk for long-term illnesses such as heart disease.” And companies suffer “because their employees are too tired or ill to be productive.”

There are ways to recharge your battery without putting your job in jeopardy, said Tara Weiss in Forbes.com. If skipping town for two weeks isn’t an option, “consider taking long weekends instead.” You can also try teaming up with someone in the office who can be a “point person” while you’re away; you can do the same for them when it’s their turn. If making a clean break from the office is a pipe dream, designate times when you’ll be available. “Mornings generally make the most sense.” That way you can check in with the office early and then “get on with your vacation.”