It’s time to start planning your vacation

According to advocacy group Project: Time Off, more than half of American workers leave unused vacation days on their company’s boardroom table. Meanwhile, the research shows that by planning ahead, more families will take much-needed vacations and thus reap personal and professional benefits. Some ideas to consider: 1. Make planning a priority. Whether you begin by tossing up a tent in the backyard or strategizing to experience a safari in Africa, there is no time like the present to begin planning family travel. With dates on the calendar, you’ll feel less stress at work, knowing you’ve provided the boss and co-workers with plenty of notice about your plans.

2. Longer vacations. According to Project: Time Off, 75 percent of those who plan ahead were more likely to take a week or more of vacation in a single stretch. By crafting a strategy in advance you’ll have your pick of departures, the best cabins on a cruise ship and more options in popular resort areas.

3. Celebrate milestone events. Geographic spread, careers, school and sports schedules make it difficult to spend time together. With plenty of advance notice, you’ll increase the odds that more family members will be able to take part in the fun.

5. Reap the benefits. Research indicates that Americans who take time to plan vacation time are happier than their come-what-may counterparts. Planners are happier with health and well-being, financial picture, personal relationships and overall mood. Further, an overwhelming majority of workers report that time off helps them relax and recharge.