Shashank discovered that taking regular short vacations is more effective for reducing burnout and increasing well-being compared to one long vacation. Inspired by a designer who enforced year-long sabbaticals every seven years, Shashank decided to implement a one-week vacation every seven weeks for his team. Research suggests that the frequency of vacations is more important than the duration, and having regular breaks throughout the year keeps employees recharged and happy. This approach is likened to using boosters at different stages to leave the atmosphere, rather than relying on one big rocket. Shashank's idea of offering one week off every two months was considered generous.
Many people don’t use all their paid time off from work — and struggle to relax and recover on nights and weekends too. What does it take to make our breaks more restorative? Adam examines the evidence on recovery and burnout, explores how workplaces can reimagine vacation policies, and highlights what kinds of hobbies are best suited to different times of day. Available transcripts for WorkLife can be found at go.ted.com/WLtranscripts