Taking Vacation is a Leadership Strategy: Why Time Off Matters More Than You Think

As I've been enjoying my trip to Japan, I’ve been thinking a lot about what it really means to take a vacation.

We often talk about time off as something restful or quiet. But vacations can be active, adventurous, and filled with new experiences. For me, this trip is about stepping away from the everyday routine, getting curious, and recharging in a way that sparks creativity and joy.

And for leaders, that kind of full break is more than personal. It has a ripple effect on your team and your culture.

What Happens When Leaders Truly Step Away

In leadership roles, there is a constant pull to stay connected. We feel the pressure to be available, to keep things moving, and to show we are committed.

But when leaders never fully unplug, it sends a subtle message. It tells others that being offline is risky, or that stepping away might look like a lack of dedication. Over time, that creates a culture where no one feels safe to take a real break.

Taking a full vacation helps shift that. When leaders model balance, boundaries, and life outside of work, it gives everyone else permission to do the same.

A Shift in Perspective

Travel has a way of refreshing how we think. When we step into new environments, meet new people, and experience life from a different point of view, it challenges our habits. It helps us see problems differently and find solutions we may not have considered.

It also reminds us that our identities are more than our roles at work. That reminder is important, especially when you lead others. Stepping away helps you return with greater clarity, energy, and a deeper connection to your purpose.

Vacation Culture Is Leadership Culture

We work with clients every day to build people-first workplaces. Part of that means making vacation a real, supported part of company culture.

That includes setting clear expectations, helping teams plan for coverage, and removing the guilt that can come with taking time off. These are practical shifts that create healthier, more engaged organizations over time.

As a fractional HR partner, we help leaders put systems in place so that they can take time away with confidence. The result is not only a more resilient business, but also a team that feels trusted and empowered.

Final Thought

You do not have to travel across the world to take a meaningful break. What matters most is the intention behind the time away. Give yourself the space to fully disconnect and to reconnect with what inspires you.

Leadership is not only about what you give to others. It is also about knowing when to pause and invest in yourself.

So if you're a leader who has been putting off a vacation, consider this your sign. Your team will thank you for it, and your future self will too.

- Vered