Dangers of Not Taking Your PTO

As you’re approaching the end of the federal fiscal year, it’s a great time to reflect on all you’ve accomplished. We can tell, you’ve been busy! And you probably deserve some time off. When was the last time you took a vacation? What’s your paid time off (PTO) balance?

More than half of American workers in a Project: Time Off survey left vacation days unused in 2015. The top danger of not taking your PTO is burnout.

We can all spot somebody suffering from a burnout – they work long days and weekends, they’re visibly stressed-out, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, easily agitated, and/or have a negative attitude.

This person may be you. 48 percent of Americans experienced increased stress over the past 5 years and 53 percent say work leaves them “overtired and overwhelmed.” And this can be especially true during the busy year-end close period.

But you don’t have to be a work martyr. Taking your PTO is good for your health and gives your body a chance to destress, recuperate and repair. Research shows it also increase your work motivation and productivity.

So what can you do to avoid the danger of not taking your PTO? Check out these blogs for our favorite professional advice:

• 10 Signs You’re Burning Out (And How To Stop It)
• Why Are You Not Taking Vacation?
• 6 Steps To Actually Unplugging On Your Next Vacation