Summer vacations are some of the most needed breaks from our usual fast paced routines. But research shows that returning to work isn’t as smooth as it seems. According to a January 2025 report by global tech and HR company UKG, productivity drops significantly in the first weeks after vacation. The reason isn’t just “post-vacation syndrome” but also the fact that many employees don’t actually rest during their time off.
Dayforce’s May 2025 report highlights a steady decline in employees who say they can fully disconnect from work while on vacation. In 2022, 47% said they could switch off, but that number fell to 39% in 2023 and 37% in 2024. In other words, fewer people are really unplugging during their vacation each year. On top of that, 15% admit they secretly reply to emails, join meetings, or keep tracking projects while away. This undermines the very purpose of vacation, which is to recharge and regain energy. Without real rest, employees return not only physically tired but also demotivated and struggling to focus, making the transition back to work harder for both individuals and organizations.
How can companies manage this process?
First of all, it’s important to treat the post-vacation period as a fresh start. Avoiding heavy workloads in the first week helps employees readjust. Small adjustments, like flexible meeting schedules or lighter project planning, can make a big difference in morale. Managers also play a key role, leading with empathy during this phase helps teams regain focus faster.
Another key point is recognizing that the return isn’t just an individual experience but a collective one. Shared debriefs or team breakfasts can help bring vacation energy into the workplace. UKG’s findings also show that positive social connections at work have a direct impact on productivity.
Ultimately, post-vacation returns don’t have to mean a dip in performance. With small but strategic actions, managers can quickly restore motivation. Even if fewer employees are truly “unplugging” during their vacations, creating a supportive environment upon return ensures that productivity remains sustainable in the long run.
