Work will always continue to happen with or without you. But vacation is an exteremly important thing considering our hectic shcedules. This is something that you to owe to yourself and your family. I initally used to think that the sky would fall down if I take a vacation. But after taking a few week long breaks, I realised that everything was just fine at work!

And yes, you may need to make some preparations before you leave so that things do go on fine at work (like getting everyone upto date on what needs to be done in your absence). The last thing you want is your collegue to call you and ask you where the files are placed!