How to extend your holiday well-being for up to 43 days

Executive overview

Most people assume holiday benefits disappear within days of returning to work. Research analysing 32 studies shows positive well-being effects can persist for up to 43 days — nearly six weeks.

The key variables are how you spend the break, not how long it is. Mental detachment from work is the single strongest predictor of lasting holiday benefit.

• Mixing home and away time outperforms fully remote trips
• Physical activity delivers the strongest well-being return
• Complete work disconnection is non-negotiable

What the research found

• Well-being stays above pre-holiday baseline for up to 43 days after return
• Longer holidays give a bigger initial boost but produce a steeper post-return decline
• Mixing staycation and away time beats time fully spent away
• Physical activity is the highest-return holiday pursuit
• Mental detachment from work is the top factor for lasting benefit
• Passive rest (e.g. Netflix) shows minimal well-being impact
• Learning new skills during holidays had virtually no effect on post-return well-being

Three ways to maximise your next break

• Set an out-of-office and fully disconnect from work
• Prioritise movement over passive relaxation
• Combine time away with time at home rather than going fully away

For managers

• Create an environment with no perceived penalties for taking leave
• Holiday benefits only materialise when people feel safe taking time off