Working individuals, we need to have a candid conversation. When was the last time you truly disconnected from work? A real break where you weren’t glued to your phone, checking emails or touching base with your supervisor?
Do you often find yourself staying late? Working through the weekends? Skipping breaks or eating lunch at your desk? According to Project: Time Off, over half of American workers left vacation days on the table in 2015 because they felt their overwhelming workloads didn’t allow for time off. Furthermore, a CareerBuilder survey revealed that 61% of workers—nearly two-thirds—report feeling burnt out in their jobs.
This is a concerning trend.
Much of this burnout can be traced back to the sluggish recovery from the most significant recession since the Great Depression. We’ve all heard stories of recent graduates facing student debt while struggling to find stable jobs, often having to move back in with their parents. Those fortunate enough to have jobs may feel the pressure to maintain superhuman performance levels to avoid being replaced by younger, more affordable talent.
While a strong work ethic is commendable, achieving a work-life balance is essential. Savvy employers understand that a well-rested, healthy employee is typically more productive. However, it’s not solely the employers’ responsibility. Some companies have introduced unlimited vacation policies, only to discover that employees take even less time off than those with set vacation days. In some cases, they’ve had to implement minimum required vacation days.
Is it America’s rugged individualism and the “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” mentality that leads to the misconception that there’s no limit to how hard one can work? In contrast, European countries manage to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Every country within the European Union mandates a minimum of four weeks of paid time off.
Yes, you read that correctly. Four weeks minimum! For example, Austria guarantees a minimum of 22 days of paid vacation plus 13 paid holidays, while the average American worker receives only 16 days of paid time off annually, which includes both vacations and holidays. Notably, the U.S. lacks any legal minimum for paid leave and holds the distinction of being the only developed nation without such protections.
This relentless work ethic comes at a price. Just as children perform better in school with adequate recess, adults are more content—and thus more loyal and efficient—when they have opportunities to recharge. While working longer hours may yield short-term results, chronic stress can lead to fatigue, mistakes, and even health issues.
Many of us are so accustomed to burnout that we may not recognize when we need a break. Here are some warning signs to be aware of:
- Persistent fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Physical aches and pains
- Feelings of anxiety or depression
- Unexplained weight changes
- Trouble concentrating
- Frequent irritability
- Increased susceptibility to illness
It’s important to note that feeling overwhelmed is not a normal state of existence. While life can be challenging and hard work is valuable, burnout is detrimental—for you, your family, and your employer.
If you have vacation days, use them. Step away from work and communicate that you’ll be offline. Delegate urgent tasks to colleagues and encourage people to reach out to them in case of emergencies. Setting up a mutual arrangement with coworkers can facilitate this during vacations. Temporarily remove work emails from your phone and log out of your accounts to resist the urge to check in.
Take a real vacation. Aim for more than one each year, even if it’s a “staycation” where you engage in activities you usually don’t have time for. Shutting off work for a while is beneficial. If you have paid time off, claim it. No one will do it for you, and most employers will not insist you take it.
When feelings of guilt arise about taking time off, remember that Americans generally receive far less paid vacation than those in other developed nations. Recognize the importance of your time and well-being, and take the necessary steps to maintain your health for yourself, your family, and your workplace.
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In summary, the issue of burnout in the workplace is a pressing concern that requires attention. Taking time off is essential for maintaining mental and physical well-being. Recognizing the signs of burnout and actively making time for rest can lead to a healthier, happier life both personally and professionally.
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