With unemployment hovering around 10 percent, many employed Americans are understandably skittish about their jobs. According to the numbers, there are plenty of people who’d love to take our places if we set a foot wrong. So here are some things to consider next time you have to make a major decision at work.

Vacation: Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Whether or not you can afford a luxury getaway, you may have vacation days allotted to you by your employer. So, when times are tough at the office, should you bother taking off? This article from Forbes.com says yes.

• Productivity benefits: In the U.S., we tend to think that more work is better, no matter what. But studies have shown that, after a certain point, more work actually yields less productivity. If your boss isn’t likely to take this view, be sure to mention the long-term benefits to the bottom line of workers taking time off.
• Psychological benefits: Relaxed, focused workers aren’t generally the ones who need to take sick days or visit various doctors’ offices on a regular basis. Remind any doubters that the mental and physical benefits of a few days off could ultimately save the company in health costs.
• Reminders of your contribution: According to the Forbes.com article, too many Americans worry that taking vacation time will make their employers forget about them, but this is often not the case. In fact, while you’re away, you’ll give everyone at work a chance to see how difficult things are when you’re not around.

Naturally, it’s important to consider the vacation environment in your workplace. And, if you have any doubts, talk with your supervisor and ask for suggestions about what to do with any vacation time you might have.

Leaving a Job: Play It Cool

Whether you’re lucky enough to leave one job on your terms for another you like better or forced out the door by a struggling company, it’s important not to burn too many bridges. Talk show host Conan O’Brien recently drew attention to this matter with a resignation letter addressed to NBC but published on the web, for all to see.

However, according to experts on job hunting, this is not a move most of us should mimic. Remember:

• The world is very connected today, and childish or unkind behavior will likely follow you, thanks to online networking.
• Leaving on a good note will only help you in the future when you need recommendations or references.
• You are (probably) not a famous comedian in a financial situation to get away with wild antics. Sorry.

So, while a final office prank or snarky letter may give you temporary satisfaction, remember that it can impede your career opportunities well into the future.