According to a new poll, most professionals have difficulty unplugging from work during paid time off. Over half (54%) don’t think they have the option to leave work behind when they’re off the clock.
Among other findings:
- Older professionals have the hardest time leaving work behind during time off, with 65% of those aged 45 and older reporting an inability to unplug. Tis compares with 47% of those between the ages of 21 and 25.
- Only 44% of professionals in healthcare believe they can unplug, compared to 73% of those in teaching, 71% of those in law, 59% in accounting, and 55% in finance.
- Men (44%) are only slightly more likely to say they can unplug than women (48%).
- According to respondents, discussions about unlimited paid time off have nearly doubled in 2 years.
- 88% of professionals have a positive view of unlimited paid time off, versus only 12% who have a negative view.
The survey authors suggest these tips to help professionals unplug during paid time off:
- Plan your departure and return. Let everyone know when you will be out and put it on your team calendar.
- Don’t be in a rush to return to work. Collaborate with your supervisor and colleagues to find the vacation schedule that works for you and others. Try to avoid the need to hurry back because of a deadline or project completion.
- Take time off before you need to take time off. Don’t wait until you are burned out and completely drained before you take a vacation.
- Force yourself to disconnect. Make it clear that you will be unavailable for calls or emails during your time off and stick to this. Resist the urge to answer messages or to check in with the office.
