Taking several short vacations throughout the year may bring more long-term happiness and well-being than one long break during the summer, according to Danish research on life quality.
Short Breaks Improve Life Satisfaction
As summer approaches and people begin to plan their time off, new insights from Denmark suggest that spreading vacation days throughout the year could be a better strategy for improving overall life quality. Rather than saving up for an extended summer holiday, taking several smaller breaks may have a more lasting effect on mental well-being and daily happiness.
This conclusion comes from research conducted by Henrik Mahncke, Head of Analysis at Realdania—a philanthropic association in Denmark that focuses on improving the quality of life through built environments and daily habits. Based on comprehensive studies into what contributes to people’s well-being, Mahncke emphasizes that the benefit of vacation is not in its length but in how it is distributed over time.
Why Small Vacations Work Better
Despite the joy of a long summer getaway, the psychological boost people get from vacation tends to fade quickly. Most people can relate to the experience of returning from a relaxing summer break, only to feel their stress levels creep back up within weeks. Because of this, Mahncke suggests rethinking how we use our vacation days.
One major factor behind the benefit of multiple short breaks is the concept of “anticipation pleasure”. The excitement and mental boost we get just from looking forward to a vacation can considerably enhance our quality of life—even before the time off begins. When vacations are spaced throughout the year, you get to experience more episodes of anticipation, which helps maintain a steady baseline of happiness and energy.
Additionally, just a few days away can be enough to mentally disconnect from the pressures of everyday routines. In Denmark, breaks during early summer holidays like Ascension Day and Whit Monday, as well as fall and winter weeks off, are commonly used to step out of what many describe as the “hamster wheel” of daily life.
Balance and Customization Are Key
While the recommendations may resonate widely, experts recognize that vacation needs vary by individual. Some people thrive during longer stretches away from work, especially those traveling abroad or visiting family. However, for many, a few long weekends sprinkled throughout the year can be just as beneficial—if not more.
In Denmark, most workers are entitled to five weeks of paid vacation annually. According to Eurostat, over 70% of Danes actually spread their vacation throughout the calendar year, rather than taking one extended period off. This cultural habit supports a healthier work-life balance and can contribute to Denmark’s regular top-ranking on global happiness indexes.
Two Practical Tips for Better Life Quality
Henrik Mahncke’s research also reveals two specific habits that go beyond how we use vacation time but also contribute to improved happiness: establishing small, meaningful traditions and practicing simple social acknowledgments like greeting neighbors and colleagues.
Traditions help anchor our year with routines we can look forward to—from holiday meals to seasonal walks—while brief social interactions build a sense of belonging and community. These elements, together with timely breaks from work, create a more stable emotional environment throughout the year.
Plan Intentionally for Added Joy
Stretching your vacation days across multiple smaller breaks can make each season more enjoyable and reduce the emotional downsides of only having one major holiday to look forward to. This strategy isn’t just about relaxation—it’s about maintaining consistent mental energy.
Making room in the calendar for mini-getaways, or simply pausing to enjoy holidays and slow weekends, helps retain momentum throughout the year. Studies show that Danes who use this approach experience higher perceived productivity and lower burnout.
Rather than viewing time off as a luxury, many Danes treat it as a necessary tool for well-being. As employers and employees alike seek to promote better work-life balance, embracing the power of frequent, small breaks could be a simple yet powerful step toward a healthier and happier lifestyle.
