In a world that has become increasingly connected, the boundaries between work and personal life have become blurred, making it more challenging than ever for professionals to truly disconnect from their job responsibilities. For multifamily professionals, this can be particularly demanding due to the nature of their work, which often involves round-the-clock responsibilities and high levels of engagement with residents. However, the importance of being #IntentionallyDisconnected during downtime cannot be overstated. Whether it’s taking Paid Time Off (PTO), Flexible Work Hours (FWH), or simply being “off the clock,” it’s crucial not to squander this valuable time by continuing to engage with work.
The Case for Intentional Disconnection
Justin Dilley, National Strategic Account Executive for MRI Software, eloquently captured this sentiment in a recent LinkedIn post.
He emphasized, “Whether you have flexible work hours today, you are on the clock right now or you have paid time off…use the down time you have for YOU. Afterhours or on vacation, make sure you are being intentional about how you spend your time…it will end up impacting how your time is spent when you are back on the job.”
Dilley’s post is a timely reminder of the value of intentional disconnection and its positive effects on mental health, well-being, and overall performance.
Positive Effects on Mental Health and Well-being
One of the most significant benefits of truly disconnecting from work during downtime is the positive impact it has on mental health and well-being. According to the American Psychological Association, chronic stress from work can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Taking time off to recharge helps reduce stress levels, improves mood, and enhances overall mental health.
A study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that vacations significantly increase overall life satisfaction and happiness. The anticipation of a break and the experiences during the vacation contribute to improved mental well-being. For multifamily professionals, who often deal with high-stress situations, this break is crucial for maintaining a positive mental state.
Physiological Benefits of Disconnecting
Disconnecting from work also has numerous physiological benefits. When professionals take time off and genuinely disengage from work-related activities, they experience lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. This reduction in stress leads to lower blood pressure, improved immune function, and a decreased risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes.
A study by the National Institutes of Health highlights that regular vacations can help reduce the risk of heart disease. The study found that men who took frequent vacations were 32% less likely to die from a heart attack compared to those who did not take vacations. Women who took vacations had a 50% lower risk of a heart attack. These statistics underscore the importance of taking time off and the profound impact it has on physical health.
The Detriments of "Dropping In" During Downtime
While the benefits of disconnecting are clear, the consequences of continually “dropping in” to work during off-the-clock hours are equally significant. When professionals fail to disengage from work, it negatively impacts their attitude, performance, and overall team morale.
Impact on Attitude and Performance
Constantly checking emails or engaging in work-related tasks during downtime can lead to burnout. Burnout is characterized by emotional exhaustion, decreased motivation, and reduced performance. According to a Gallup study, 76% of employees experience burnout at least sometimes, with 28% experiencing it very often or always. Burnout not only affects individual performance but also diminishes creativity, problem-solving abilities, and decision-making skills.
Effect on Team Morale
When team members see their colleagues or leaders frequently working during their time off, it sets an unhealthy precedent. It creates an environment where employees feel pressured to be constantly available, even during their downtime. This lack of respect for personal time can lead to resentment, decreased job satisfaction, and high turnover rates. Leaders must understand that by respecting their own and their team's time off, they promote a healthier work culture and enhance overall team morale.
Leading by Example: The Role of Leaders
Leaders play a crucial role in fostering a culture that values and respects downtime. It’s essential for leaders to set the expectation that when someone is on PTO or any other form of leave, they are in “Do Not Disturb” mode. Here are some strategies for leaders to ensure this practice is upheld:
Communicate Clearly:
Before any team member goes on leave, clearly communicate that they will not be available for work-related tasks. Reinforce this message to the entire team to ensure everyone respects the time off.
Lead by Example:
Leaders should model the behavior they expect from their team. When taking time off, they should fully disconnect from work and avoid sending emails or engaging in work-related activities.
Set Boundaries:
Establish clear boundaries regarding work hours and encourage team members to adhere to them. This includes setting expectations around response times and respecting each other’s personal time.
Promote a Culture of Respect:
Foster a work environment that values work-life balance and respects personal time. Recognize and reward employees who demonstrate a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Statistics Supporting the Importance of Downtime
The significance of taking time off and disconnecting from work is supported by numerous statistics:
According to QPS Employment Group, Five percent of American workers did not take any PTO in 2023. Americans had more than $312 billion in unused vacation days last year. One-third of American employees (32%) say it's difficult to take time off when working from home. Generation Z employees are 15% more likely to say it's difficult to take time off.
According to the U.S. Travel Association, American workers left a record 768 million vacation days unused in 2018, with 55% of workers not using all their allotted time off. This highlights the need for a cultural shift towards valuing downtime.
That was 6 years ago. Pre-covid. And a bit less connected than we currently are in 2024.
A study by Project: Time Off found that employees who take their vacation days report higher levels of happiness at work and are more likely to receive promotions and raises compared to those who forgo their time off.
The World Health Organization recognizes burnout as an occupational phenomenon, emphasizing the need for proper rest and recovery to prevent it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the importance of being #IntentionallyDisconnected during downtime cannot be overstated. For multifamily professionals and people in general, taking time off to fully disengage from work is essential for maintaining mental health, physical well-being, and overall job performance. Leaders must set the tone by respecting their own and their team’s personal time, fostering a culture that values work-life balance.
By intentionally disconnecting from work during PTO, FMLA, or off-the-clock hours, professionals can recharge, reduce stress, and return to work more motivated and productive. As Justin Dilley’s LinkedIn post reminds us, working smarter, not harder, and prioritizing downtime are crucial steps towards achieving a healthier, more balanced life.
References
1. Dilley, J. (2024). Wednesday Wisdom: Work-Life Balance. LinkedIn. Retrieved from [LinkedIn]
2. American Psychological Association. (2021). Stress in America.
3. Journal of Happiness Studies. (2010). The Impact of Vacations on Happiness and Life Satisfaction.
4. National Institutes of Health. (2000). The Benefits of Vacation.
5. Gallup. (2018). Employee Burnout, Part 1: The 5 Main Causes.
6. Clockify by CAKE.com. What Is The Average PTO in the USA? PTO Statistics for 2024
6. U.S. Travel Association. (2019). State of American Vacation.
7. Project: Time Off. (2016). The State of American Vacation.
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