Ah, vacation: that ever-important, often-illusive concept, where you leave real life (ahem, work) behind to rest, recharge, and maybe take on some new and exciting experiences.

Not ringing a bell? That probably means you’re one of the 52% of Americans who left vacation time on the table last year.

Well, we’ve got news for you. Vacation time is important. What’s more important is actually using it.

We understand that taking time away from work can often seem like more trouble than it’s worth, whether you feel guilty leaving your employees to handle your tasks or worry that you’ll return to an unimaginable number of emails. But the truth is that not taking time to recharge can quickly lead to burnout and tank your productivity anyway. So why not budget a little time for yourself?

This week, we’re bringing you a special edition of Our Favorite Headlines, with all the inspiration you need to take a vacation – and make the most of it. Because it’s important.

Check them out now. Then go book your vacation!

On why/how to take a proper vacation:

The Perfect 2-Week Vacation According To Science

Why Millennials Are Taking Fewer Vacations (And Why They Should Take More)

Why Taking Time Off Is Good for Your Brain

Inspiration for your return to work:

This is what you should do on your first day back from vacation

8 things successful people do after getting back from vacation

And if you simply can’t get away for a true vacation, reading a novel is a great way to give your mind a vacation – with some added benefits:

Why ‘getting lost in a book’ is so good for you, according to science