Did your return from vacation have a real impact on your productivity / motivation?

I just got back from a 7th week sabbatical. 7th Week Sabbatical? You work six weeks and take one week off. I feel like a new man. I attended a three day conference and did a one day health intensive. The biggest benefit is new clarity on some things I’ve been thinking about. The other thing I noticed today is that I’m more focused on what matters and I don’t feel anxiety about all the other stuff.

I recently switched and before switching to my new role, I took a break for a week. The goal was to get recharged and rejuvenated. When I get back and started my new job BOOM the productivity and the motivation were on the cloud. After that day, I made a commitment to myself that I must take a break frequently and I highly recommend every one of you as well.

Previous studies showed vacation increases productivity, but the real question we should be asking is about how mindful we are of our needs. Our capacity depends not only on taking rest but also at the right time. It's alarming to see so many industry professionals struggling with vacation guilt.

No vacations lately

Longer vacations can be helpful because it makes it easy to come back to a blank slate — only the most important tasks come back. When you're only gone for a weekend or a short trip, it's really easy to hold onto your old task list, but after a week or two of vacation it becomes clear what is not necessary for the business. This is why I like to regularly delete tasks older than 3 months from the backlog as a PM. If someone doesn't feel strongly enough to add it back in, it probably shouldn't be a priority.

It definitely has. Clearing up your mind, focusing on other things for a certain period, recharging your mental batteries, and more. I don' think it's realistic (or even sustainable in the long-term) to force yourself to push 8-10 and more hours every day. The quality of your work will inevitably suffer and you're at a high risk of burnout.

Last year 9 days, impact on motivation. Shorter breaks (three-day weekend) without leaving town, allow me to catch up on current affairs, so that also has a positive effect on motivation :)

I would say that there is a short-term bad affection on productivity: its always hard to return to working pace:) but definitely helps with motivation

Just checked the result. Glad to see that vacation impacts motivation and productivity!!! Hope positively :) Same to me, especially if I dive into new activities like hiking, swimming, or even wine tasting ;)!

Yes it does

It certainly is. I feel that breaks are key to having fresh ideas or even viewing your project from an outsider's eye.

Just went on a 2 weeks trip to Singapore. Seriously, this help me forget about things that were happening at my work. It also helps me to just relax and take the time to disconnect my brain. I came back fresh and ready for new challenges!

I took a short 4-5 day vacation (I returned today), and I feel so renewed! I have lots of energy, and I'm feeling much more productive. Apparently, the break was much needed!

Having a break from work definitely improves my productivity and motivation. I always end up coming back to work with so much energy, even if I'm just away for a long weekend.

Free always positively affects the performance of our employees.

Best motivation & productivity for me :)

I took a vacation and spent it at the dacha, gardening) This kind of physical activity clears the mind and helps to switch it up. That's why you should take a break every two months, I think.

Yes absolutely! Your mind is fresh after a vacation, giving you new ideas

I'm on a mission, no vacations until we get our 1st paid customer.