12 Reasons Why You Should Take a Day Off From Work

I know, I KNOW, you just got back from Christmas break, and taking another day off seems completely bananas. But work in January is kind of the worst, and even if it's hard for you to justify in your own mind, I'm here to tell you that you deserve a break. The holidays bring out all kinds of emotional ups and downs for people, but January is somehow even worse, even though nobody really talks about it. The holiday season is officially over, so there's that whole letdown of not having a pretty tree to gaze upon, no beautifully wrapped presents to open, no more houses made of gingerbread and covered in random candies, and randomly peppered in Elf references seem to lose their sparkle in normal conversations after December ends.

However, there's the uplifting vibe of a fresh start for a new year, so there are lots of reasons to feel excited, anxious, determined, and pressured to make this YOUR YEAR. How can you do that though with work in your way? I mean, obviously you need to make money in order to survive and pay for grown up things like rent, food, and gas, but a day off could seriously help put you in a solid head space for the many remaining minutes of 2015. Here are all the reasons you should take a day off from work this week and feel zero percent guilty about it.

1. Because it's time to hibernate.

The bears are doing it, so why can't we?

2. Because everyone is sick right now anyway.

There are multiple strains of the cold and flu viruses spreading around your office right this very second. Gross, right? Stay far, far away from that whole mess.

3. Because for most businesses, this is a slow time of year.

If this is true for your company, then hooray! They don't really need as much from you right now, so take advantage of that.

4. Because those episodes of Friends on Netflix aren't going to watch themselves.

You're only about halfway through season five, so clearly there is work to be done.

5. Because the holidays are over and you need some you time.

The last few months have been all about family, friends, and taking in a spectacularly excessive amount of calories. Time to take a little time just for yourself.

6. Because this is the best time of year to be lazy.

The days are short, darkness is all around, everyone's energy is low, so go right ahead and relax.

7. Because your pet misses you when you're gone.

They probably stare at the door the entire day until you come home. That'll make you feel all the feels and call in sick, right?

8. Because it'll recharge your batteries for the next day.

If you're feeling a little stressed or anxious at work, a day off will give you time to clear your head and resume your daily tasks with fresh eyes.

9. Because your drive to reach your resolutions is starting to fade.

Remember those crafts you were going to try? You haven't spent much time working on them yet, and we're already into the middle of January. Don't let that yarn collect any more dust or you will most likely give up until next New Year's Eve.

10. Because every other country in the world vacations better than we do.

According to a 2013 study in Forbes, the U.S. is the only advanced economy that does not automatically provide paid holidays and vacation time to employees. We suck at taking time off compared to the rest of the world. A day with or without pay won't bust up your budget. If you need a day off, take it.

11. Because you've earned it.

If your company does offer paid time off, then you've earned it and you should use it. You will never regret using a sick or personal day to take it easy — never ever ever.

12. Because why not?

Seriously though, why not?

Image: Ferris Bueller/Paramount Pictures; Giphy (12)