You Shouldn't Feel Guilty About Taking A Vacation

Even though you've booked that much-needed vacation, you might find yourself hesitant to take the time off. How do you address the guilt that may be weighing you down, and actually enjoy your holiday?

- Cheryl Lai-Lim

When was the last time you took a genuine break from work? A true escape from the demands of your job, and not just a half-hearted attempt to disconnect while still tethered to your inbox when you're in line at Disneyland. The struggle with vacation guilt - a nagging feeling that pulls you back to work even when you're supposed to be unwinding - is all too common in today's fast-paced world.

Research shows that vacations are essential for our mental and physical well-being, offering a muchneeded respite from the daily grind. Of course, one of the most obvious benefits of turning on your OOO e-mails and putting your feet up is a reduction in your stress levels.

"Vacations provide a crucial opportunity for personal growth, rejuvenation, and self-discovery," says Aki Tsukui, a therapist at Counselling Perspective. "They offer a deliberate break from the constant pursuit of career objectives, allowing for reflection and alignment with long-term fulfilment."

But here's the catch: Despite knowing the benefits of time off, many of us struggle to unplug.

UNDERSTANDING VACATION GUILT

Vacation guilt stems from various psychological factors deeply ingrained in our work-centric culture. The word guilt already suggests that something is wrong, notes Sharmini Winslow, a therapist and director of Psychodrama Singapore, a therapy clinic under Promises Healthcare. She says: "It's more than just guilt - it's rooted in fear and anxiety. When we examine the foundation of this fear, we find that it stems from a primal response to threat. People who have been taught or criticised by various sources may internalise the belief that self-care is selfish or even harmful."