More than 55% of American workers didn’t use all their paid vacation time last year. Why is this?

Reasons are all over the map – too much work to do, perception that no one else can do their job, or they can’t afford the vacation they’d really like to take. Where this choice often breeds lower productivity and eventual employee burnout, planned time away from work leads to rejuvenation, reflection and stronger relationships with the most important people in their life.

On May 14, as part of the ongoing HR Matters series co-sponsored by the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce and Meridian Technology Center, Anna Irwin will present Go Ahead, Take Your Vacation Time.

During this session, Irwin will dive into the details of how to successfully prepare for and get away from your workspace, how to optimize your time away and how to re-enter your work routines feeling renewed and recommitted.

Irwin is a Human Behavior Specialist, focusing on the people skills arena. She assists individuals as they master their communication and leadership skills, ensuring they become an invaluable member of any team they are part of in all areas of their lives. Irwin has worked with numerous organizations across the state to improve their leadership, communication and team cohesiveness skills. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of Central Oklahoma and a master’s degree in organizational behavior from Boston University. Irwin is a Certified John Maxwell Instructor specializing in engagement, teamwork, productivity and all things leadership.

HR Matters sessions are held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Meridian’s campus. Registration is $15 per session and includes lunch. For more information or to register for the upcoming HR Matters series visit meridiantech.edu/HRMatters or contact Marcy Luter at marcyl@meridiantech.edu, (405) 377-3333 ext. 297 or toll-free at (888) 607-2509.