Out of Office Isn’t Optional (It’s Survival)

When was the last time you took a real break?

Not “working from the beach.” Not “checking emails on vacation.” A true, phone-off, brain-resting, guilt-free pause.

If you can’t remember… you’re not alone. Over half of U.S. workers leave PTO unused every year. It’s costing more than just vacation days.

The Real Cost of Skipping PTO

Burnout Risk Soars: The World Health Organization officially classifies burnout as an occupational phenomenon—caused in part by “chronic workplace stress not successfully managed.” Time away breaks the cycle and gives your body and mind time to reset.

Creativity Drops: A 2023 study in Nature Mental Health found that people who took regular, disconnected vacations returned to work with higher creative problem-solving abilities. Stepping away gives your brain room to wander—and innovate.

Health Suffers: Skipping vacations increases your risk for heart disease, depression, and anxiety, according to a Journal of Occupational Health Psychology study. Even a short break can lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormones.
(Nature Study)
(JOHP Study)

Why We Don’t Take It (and Why You Should Anyway)

✔️ “There’s too much to do.”
That to-do list will never be done. Your brain, on the other hand, needs you to pause to work properly.

✔️ “I’ll look bad if I’m gone.”
Actually, employees who use their PTO report feeling more committed and engaged at work when they return. Your boss (and your body) would rather have you rested than running on empty.

✔️ “I’m not going anywhere fancy.”
Staycations count. Reading a book in your backyard counts. Turning off email for two days counts. It’s the disconnect that matters, not the destination.

This Week’s Nudge

Look at your calendar. Pick one day—even a half day—this summer to block off and claim as yours.
No meetings. No Slack. No work.

PTO is part of the job—not a bonus. You’ve earned it. Use it.

If you missed any of the series so far, you can find them here: https://one-sourcetech.com/category/blog/