Thanks to the prevalence of smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, workers have the ability to check in to work at any time, from anywhere. For many, that even includes on holiday. 

A new CareerBuilder.uk survey shows that 32 percent of UK workers check their work email while on holiday. For as much as workers may look forward to their holiday, some may have a hard time relaxing anticipating what they will come back to at work. Over a third (39 per cent) of workers say they have come back from a trip away with so much work accumulated that they wish they had never taken time off at all. While three quarters of workers (75 per cent) plan to take a holiday this year, 17 percent say they are not because they cannot afford to, and 7 percent simply have no plans yet. The national survey was conducted online on behalf of CareerBuilder.uk of more than 1000 employees across the UK.

Separating business and pleasure

“Taking time off is important for employees to rest and recuperate from the stress of their daily work lives, so it’s important for employers to encourage their employees to take advantage of their allotted time off,” says Scott Helmes, Managing Director at CareerBuilder UK. “Some workers have a harder time than others checking out completely, however, and that can cause more stress than not taking a break at all” Helmes recommends the following tips to ensure workers make the most of their time off:

1) Take a “staycation.”Seventeen percentof workers report that they cannot afford to take a holiday, but taking just a few days off work to relax at home, spend quality time with the family or catch up with friends can do wonders for your well-being.

2) Work ahead. Try to wrap up as many projects before you leave so they aren’t lingering in the back of your mind during your time away.

3) Don’t make it a guilt trip. Remember, your holiday days are there for a reason. Your employer wants you to take time off, so you can return refreshed, rejuvenated and productive.

4) Ask about discounts. If a tight budget is preventing you from going on holiday, ask your HR representative about any entertainment or travel discounts your employer may provide.  

5) Set boundaries. Let co-workers and clients know you will be away, and who they can contact in your place, and allocate tasks to new owners to ensure progress is made in your absence.