Paid Time Off (PTO) is one of the most valuable benefits in today’s workplace, but what happens when employees consistently forgo their earned vacation time? While employees may seem dedicated by staying “hard at work,” regularly skipping PTO can have negative effects, both for the individual and the company.
Through our experience working with hundreds of businesses, we’ve seen how neglecting PTO can lead to burnout and diminished enthusiasm. Employees who are committed to their work often become metaphorically “shackled” to their desks, losing passion for their roles. In extreme cases, employers have had to mandate PTO for these individuals—and, almost without fail, those employees return with a renewed attitude, refreshed perspective, and greater enthusiasm. Many even express gratitude for being encouraged to take time off and break their workaholic habits.
At IPS, we’ve had numerous conversations with clients about their PTO policies and how employees utilize their time off. Based on these discussions and our observations, we strongly encourage businesses to take advantage of PTO structures to help employees recognize the value of using their earned time off.
Why PTO Benefits Everyone:
- Boosts Employee Morale: PTO acts as a reward, showing employees that their hard work is appreciated and respected. Taking time off serves as recognition for their dedication and helps them feel valued, improving their overall job satisfaction.
- Increases Productivity: Employees who take breaks—whether a week or just a day—return to work rejuvenated, more focused, and motivated. Time away from the office helps reduce burnout, leading to higher productivity and better morale among teams.
- Encourages Work-Life Balance: PTO allows employees the freedom to focus on personal priorities, whether that’s spending quality time with family or catching up on personal tasks. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being and long-term career satisfaction.