The secret to getting ahead at work is how much vacation you use.

Taking time off is beneficial because it fuels creative thinking.

During downtime or incubation periods, the brain subconsciously processes information and generates new insights and solutions.

Additionally, engaging in non-work activities provides an opportunity to gather additional information, which can lead to new ideas.

Extended periods of time off, such as sabbaticals, have been transformative for individuals, sparking creativity, innovative thinking, and new visions.

Even shorter breaks throughout the year can have comparable benefits.

However, despite the advantages, a significant number of employees (46%) do not take all of their paid time off, often due to the fear of falling behind.

A major issue is our culture and the high value we give to busyness and overwork.

Many people continue to work despite exhaustion, which can have detrimental effects on health and well-being.

Ultimately, taking vacation time is not only beneficial for personal happiness and health but also for career advancement.

When Ernst & Young studied its own employees, it found that taking 10 hours a month of vacation time was associated with an average 8% boost in annual performance ratings.

A separate study of more than 5,000 people published in the Harvard Business Review concluded that those who use more of their vacation days are promoted at almost twice the rate of their counterparts who leave substantial numbers of days on the table.

What are your thoughts and experiences of taking vacation and time off?

Kelley Joyce is a career development coach who is dedicated to helping people discover their career path and land their dream jobs. She has served hundreds of professionals across the U.S., U.K., and Australia since 2012 to radically change their relationship with work. Follow her on LinkedIn for career and business tips.