Take That Vacation

Kyle just received an email in his inbox: “Please submit your vacation plan for the year.” He takes a moment to glance at his project timeline, then at family photos—his kids’ smiles from last summer’s trip to the lake. With deadlines looming for the next quarter, he figures there’ll never really be a “good” time. So, he pushes the email to his “later” folder yet again—this marks the third time this month.

This scenario resonates with millions of Americans. Many find themselves in a loop of postponing vacations and racking up unused paid time off (PTO). It’s not that we think we won’t be busy next month; it’s more complex. Each year, workers are basically giving away portions of their earned leave, collectively amounting to billions of dollars. But the issue here isn’t solely about the benefits of using paid leave—it’s more about how we function best as humans.

People often point fingers at toxic work environments, demanding workloads, and unsupportive bosses as reasons for not taking vacations. But actually, whether it’s parental leave, sick leave, or PTO, having employer support for time off exists for good reasons. It benefits both employees and companies when workers step back occasionally. Here’s why it matters.

Health Benefits

First and foremost, it’s about health. Chronic stress and burnout can lead to serious physical and mental health issues, like cardiovascular disease and anxiety. This is even more pronounced when people work long hours without breaks. Time off offers an opportunity for the body and mind to recover and reset.

Interestingly, this also has a direct effect on productivity. It may sound contradictory, but studies show that taking leave can boost workplace performance. The human brain really needs rest to function at its best. For knowledge workers who rely on focus or service workers who need to regulate their tasks, this is crucial. Research indicates that after time away, employees return with enhanced creativity and renewed problem-solving abilities.

Time off also fosters innovation. Stepping back from the daily grind allows for new insights and ideas to surface. Breaks provide a mental space for fresh perspectives—some of the best ideas often pop up during holidays, when the mind is free to wander. And it’s particularly beneficial for roles that rely heavily on creativity and innovation.

Cultivating a Supportive Culture

It’s not just about whether to take that vacation; it’s also about who does. Peer pressure plays a role, but it’s really managers and leaders who set the tone. Without leaders taking their own leaves, it creates a culture where overwork feels normalized. Vacations are vital for establishing healthy boundaries and can encourage others to take their well-deserved breaks too. This dynamic not only helps current employees but also makes the workplace attractive to future talent.

However, there’s often a discrepancy between what’s promised in policies and how they’re actually implemented. Interviews with working mothers have shown that while companies may claim to support family-friendly workplaces through paid leave, this isn’t always reflected in practice. There can be a notable gap between what’s written and what’s actually experienced. This “implementation gap” can significantly impact employee morale and their connection to the organization.

On a personal level, spending quality time with family and friends is essential for nurturing those relationships. Vacations help create meaningful memories, strengthen connections, and maintain balance between work and life. When we invest in our relationships, we build a support system that enhances our resilience at work. Without this time, those connections may weaken.

So, don’t be like Kyle; don’t keep pushing off that vacation. Whether it’s for a day, a week, or longer, take the time you need to recharge and reconnect with what matters. Managers should communicate vacation policies clearly and ensure they’re effectively implemented. Set a positive example by taking your own breaks. When you return refreshed and resilient, you’ll find the work is still waiting for you.