Do You Have an Annual Leave Plan?

The benefits of having, and using, your Annual Leave go far beyond just taking time out of the business. At Flight Centre Travel Group, we understand the value of taking time to recharge and prioritise your wellbeing.

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Whether it's a staycation, long weekend, or a bucket-list adventure, utilising your leave can provide lasting benefits to your mental and physical health. With our diverse range of leave policies, from annual leave to volunteer leave, there's an option to suit every need.

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But why is it so important to take your leave? And how can having a ‘leave plan’ set you up for success? Here’s our guide on the top 9 benefits of taking your leave and planning ahead.

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1. Boosts Mental Health

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Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or exhausted? You’re not alone. Nearly 49% of employees report feeling some level of burnout. Prolonged exposure to work stress without regular breaks can contribute to anxiety and depression. By scheduling time off, you give your mind the chance to reset and recover, reducing the risk of burnout.

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Pro Tip: Have a conversation with your leader about when would be a good time to take some leave in the near future. Even just a handful of long weekends can make a big difference.

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2. Improves Physical Health

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Work-related stress can take a toll on your physical wellbeing, potentially increasing your risk of high blood pressure and other health issues. Regular breaks and vacations allow your body to unwind, lowering stress hormones and promoting overall health.

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Action Step: Check out the leave policies available through the FCTG Policy Portal to find the best fit for your needs. If you’re unsure which policy suits you, reach out to your local HR team for guidance.

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3. Increases Productivity and Focus

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A rested mind is a sharp mind. Employees often return from leave feeling more focused, energized, and ready to tackle new challenges. By recharging, you’re not just doing yourself a favor but also boosting your overall productivity.

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Quick Tip: Consider breaking your leave into shorter chunks, such as Fridays or Mondays off, to create long weekends. It’s an easy way to maintain high energy levels throughout the year.

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4. Reduces Burnout

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Burnout can lead to decreased performance or even complete exhaustion. One of the most effective ways to avoid work-induced burnout is to step away from the daily grind, even if it’s just for a short time.

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Suggestion: Why not take a few proactive self-care days? You don’t always need a grand vacation; a staycation can be just as effective in recharging your batteries.

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5. Supports a Healthy Work-Life Balance

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Taking leave is crucial to maintaining a balanced lifestyle. It’s easy to let work consume your days, but having time off to spend with loved ones or pursue hobbies helps restore balance, leading to greater overall happiness.

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Consider This: Plan your leave around public holidays to maximise time off with minimal days used. With careful planning, a few days off can turn into an extended break, allowing you to unwind fully.

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6. Encourages Personal Growth

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Leave isn’t just for lounging on the beach (though that’s great too). Consider using your Volunteer Leave to give back to the communities where we work, live, and travel. It’s a fulfilling way to take a break while making a difference.

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7. Creates Something to Look Forward To

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There’s something magical about the anticipation of an upcoming holiday. Knowing you have leave scheduled in the calendar can brighten your mood and help you push through busy periods at work.

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Pro Tip: The 11th Philosophy at FCTG encourages all employees to have at least one future holiday booked. So, go ahead—start planning! Note: this is not an official FCTG Philosophy, but it should be.

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8. Supports Team Dynamics and Culture

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By regularly discussing your leave plans with your team leader, you set a positive example for others. Encouraging open conversations about leave can foster a culture that values employee wellbeing. Let's create a culture where we celebrate our people using their leave entitlements.

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Quick Win: Discuss your leave plans in your next one-on-one with your leader. Not only will it benefit you, but it might also inspire your colleagues to prioritise their own downtime.

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9. Enhances Overall Happiness

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Taking a break and disconnecting from work leads to increased happiness and a greater sense of fulfillment. Whether you’re jet-setting across the globe or enjoying a local getaway, time off allows you to return to work with a smile on your face and a fresh perspective.

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Final Thought: If you’ve recently returned from a trip, don’t stop there. Start planning your next adventure! It’s all about keeping that excitement alive and ensuring you stay on top of your health and wellbeing. If you haven't taken time off in a while, this is your reminder to consider when you can take a break!

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Ready to Book Some Leave?

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It’s time to take action. Have a conversation with your leader about the best time for your next break, explore the FCTG Policy Portal for all the options available. If the reasons for taking are more than just time out of the office and you need some additional support, and don’t forget about the incredible resources available through your local EAP.

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Your future self will thank you for it. After all, life is meant to be lived to the fullest, and that includes making time to recharge, relax, and, most importantly, thrive!

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