Richard Branson recently issued a decree allowing his Virgin employees to take as much time off as they want, unlimited vacation time. Has he opened a Pandora’s box? Is he trying to make it really hard for small business owners to look their employees in the eye? Are we all secretly hoping this will ruin him?
Possibly. Or maybe not.
Unplugging from Work is Really Hard
According to MarketWatch.com:
Employees only use 51% of their eligible paid vacation time and paid time off, according to a recent survey of 2,300 workers who receive paid vacation. The survey was carried out by research firm Harris Interactive for the careers website Glassdoor. What’s more, 61% of Americans work while they’re on vacation, despite complaints from family members; one-in-four report being contacted by a colleague about a work-related matter while taking time off, while one-in-five have been contacted by their boss.
We live in a competitive world. We live in a super-connected world. Walking away or going off the grid and taking your vacation time might seem impossible. On the other hand, it might be really good for you and your family.
Free Time is a Very Good Thing
With the practices I build, the dentists I meet with are all very smart and dedicated. But the stress of running a practice can take its toll. Right?
This holiday season, I’d encourage you to give yourselves and your families the gift of some holiday vacation time. Unplugged time. People will still need dentists when you return and you will be rested and ready for them.
You’ll thank me for it!
~Jason
