By Emma Clarke

According to economists, by not going into work on Monday we will cost the economy £2.3 billion. However, surely they’re not seeing the full picture. This blog discusses the benefits of having more Bank Holidays.

1. Catching up with family and friends

It’s true that not everyone will be off work this Monday, I always feel sorry for all the nurses, bar staff, etc. who will be working hard this Bank Holiday. However, for most people it will be a chance to spend time with loved ones. It’s important to make time for your family and friends. No matter how much you love your job, it’s crucial to have a good work/life balance. Children who spend more time with their parents tend to get better marks at school and are less likely to commit anti-social behaviour. In addition to family life, holidays present an opportunity for you to catch up on news and perhaps try out a new restaurant, which brings us to…

2. Benefits for the economy

When you enjoy having an extra day off by going to a restaurant, seeing a film, going shopping, etc. at the same time you’re contributing to the local economy. Although there is a cost to the economy due to the majority of the population being off work, we must not forget that other countries have more holidays and their employees are more productive. Japan has a minimum number of 15 days of public holiday entitlement compared with Britain’s 8. Is it realistic for economists to propose taking away 8 days of holiday a year? Surely employees would end up taking time off due to stress?

3. Recharging batteries

Everybody needs a break otherwise they become stressed, their immune system becomes weaker and they end up taking time off through illness. Half a million employees have reported becoming ill as a result of dealing with too much stress at work. These absences cost British industry approximately £370 million per year. Apart from the financial impact, Bank Holidays present the opportunity to travel and expand horizons. Travel stimulates the mind and helps you to see the world from a different perspective. If you’re staying at home, take the opportunity this Monday to enjoy your hobbies and return to work feeling refreshed.

One possible compromise would be to spread out the Bank Holidays so that they aren’t packed so closely together. Perhaps two in one month is excessive and it would be easier on everyone if there was more time between each holiday.

What do you think about Bank Holidays? A threat to the economy or a necessity for modern life?

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