Website:
growanalytica.com
Job details:
Johnny C. Taylor Jr. addresses your workplace queries weekly for USA TODAY. As the president and CEO of SHRM, the largest trade association for human resources professionals, he is also the author of “Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”
The Question
Feeling burned out and recognizing the need for time off can be challenging, especially in a workplace that seems to value constant availability. Rylan expresses concern about how taking PTO might impact perceptions, particularly regarding advancement opportunities. How should one weigh the decision to take time off?
Johnny’s Answer
In most cases, the answer is a resounding yes. Utilizing the paid time off you’ve earned is essential for maintaining strong performance; it does not indicate a lack of commitment. The key lies in using this time intentionally and responsibly.
At SHRM, we are witnessing unprecedented levels of employee burnout, especially among younger workers and managers. This trend is alarming because burnout affects not just individuals but also reduces engagement, innovation, decision-making, and ultimately, business performance. Forward-thinking employers understand that rest and recovery are not merely rewards for hard work; they are crucial investments in sustaining high performance.
This is why I advocate for work/life integration rather than work/life balance. The objective isn’t a perfect 50/50 split; real life doesn’t function that way. Instead, the goal is to find a sustainable rhythm where work and personal responsibilities coexist without one consistently overshadowing the other. This might involve stepping away for a doctor’s appointment and making up the time later or leaving early for your child’s recital and finishing a project after they’re asleep. Incorporating flexibility into your routine before burnout occurs equips you to handle the inevitable demands of both work and life.
How to Take PTO the Right Way
However, taking PTO comes with its own set of responsibilities. Your team will manage your workload while you’re away, so it’s crucial to plan your time off as carefully as you would any significant project. Whenever possible, avoid scheduling extended absences during critical business periods. Communicate your plans early, ensure your work is covered, and provide your colleagues with clear information about what they may need in your absence. Proper preparation ensures that your time off doesn’t create unnecessary stress for others.
If your organization genuinely discourages the use of earned PTO, despite claiming to value well-being, take note. A culture that expects peak performance while simultaneously discouraging the recovery necessary for high performance is unsustainable. It’s worth considering whether this is an environment where you can continue to grow and build a long-term career.
My best advice is this: Use your PTO as intentionally as you would any other resource. Plan, communicate, and set your team up for success. The most effective leaders I know never apologize for taking time off. They prepare so thoroughly that work continues seamlessly in their absence. This kind of planning not only preserves your chances for advancement but also showcases the judgment, professionalism, and leadership qualities that organizations value most.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.
Click on Apply to know more.