Six Signs You Should Use a Vacation Day Soon

If you haven’t taken much time off this year, it might come back to bite you. Here are six signs it’s time to take a vacation day, or maybe even an actual vacation . . .

1. Every little problem feels like a huge issue. Most people can handle the occasional curveball at work, but it gets harder if all you do is work.

2. Your coworkers keep asking if you feel okay. Or maybe they say you seem tired. Sometimes other people tend to key in on how stressed out you are before you do.

3. You’ve been making more mistakes than usual. When that happens, a lot of people try to compensate by working MORE. But studies have shown you’re more likely to make mistakes when you’re overworked.

4. You have more aches and pains than normal. Being stressed at work makes your body release chemicals that cause inflammation, which make you more sensitive to pain. And too much stress can also cause stomach issues.

5. You’re having trouble sleeping. A study in 2005 found people who work too much have a harder time unwinding before bed. And a 2007 study found that even once you do fall asleep, the quality of your sleep is lower if you’re stressed about work.

6. You’re feeling overly cynical about your job. If you suddenly hate your job, your company, AND your coworkers, you might just be burnt out and need more than Saturday and Sunday to recharge.