Can you believe it? Summer is nearly over, and you didn’t use any paid time off (PTO)! In the rhythm of our fast‑paced lives, the very benefit designed to restore our energy often goes unused. Encouraging the use of paid time off strengthens workforce performance, morale and long-term organizational health. In addition to using PTO balance, the real benefit occurs when employees fully disconnect from work, completely free from work-related distractions or stressors.
Vacation is valuable time to reset and regain focus away from work. However, many workers can’t seem to put down their company gadgets while away from the office. Could this be why a recent International Foundation survey found 43% of U.S. employees don’t even want to use their vacation due to a heavy workload? Often times, when employees finally decide to step away to take vacation time, they can’t turn their minds off from work and feel obligated to assist with any crisis, small problems or quick questions that may arise in their absence.
Employees may hesitate to take leave if they believe their absence will overburden others, delay projects, or jeopardize service delivery. 37% of employees report they don’t use their vacation time due to lack of adequate staffing or need to coordinate with other staff members. When staffing is tight or coverage uncertain, PTO stops being a benefit—becoming a source of stress. Employees feel guilty, managers struggle to approve time off, and the workplace culture subtly reinforces overwork.
To encourage employees to use the paid time off:
- Employers must start by shaping the company culture. Get rid of the “always on” mindset. Encourage leaving at scheduled end times and, staying logged off on weekends. This creates a workplace where unplugging is not just permitted—but expected, supported, and valued.
- Build in a strategy to enforce the use of paid time off, minus the forceful push of a standardized “rule” that could lead to ruffled feathers. 70% of organizations encourage their employees to take paid time off, but don’t require a minimum level of usage.
- Don’t just talk the talk—Walk the walk! Leading by example will send a message that rest is a necessity, not a discretionary perk.
Encouraging employees to use their paid time off is an investment in your organization’s future. It allows employees time to recover, reset and bring a fresh mind back to the workplace. Instead of letting vacation days (and burnout) accumulate, cultivate a company culture that encourages the use of paid time off.
