Paid time off (PTO) is intended to be a refreshing break from professional responsibilities, whether it’s a vacation, a sick day, or mental health time. However, a growing number of professionals find it challenging to fully unplug during these breaks, even as policies like unlimited PTO gain popularity. A 2022 survey by Fishbowl by Glassdoor highlights just how widespread this issue is—and which careers are most affected.
The Struggle to Unplug Is Real
According to Fishbowl’s poll of over 20,000 professionals, 54% admitted they couldn’t completely disconnect from work during their PTO. This tendency to stay tethered to work varies significantly across different industries and age groups, hinting at deeper cultural and professional trends.
Age Influences the Ability to Disconnect
Age plays a role in how well professionals unplug. Younger workers between the ages of 21 and 25 reported fewer difficulties, with 47% saying they couldn’t disconnect. However, this figure jumps to 65% for workers aged 45 and older, likely reflecting the increased responsibility and expectations that often accompany more advanced career stages.
Teachers and Lawyers Face the Greatest Challenges
When it comes to specific professions, teachers lead the pack in struggling to disconnect, with 73% reporting difficulty. Lawyers followed closely at 71%. Other professions such as accounting (59%), finance (55%), and consulting (51%) also reported high levels of difficulty. On the flip side, tech and healthcare professionals were more successful, with 56% of respondents in these fields saying they could unplug.
The Role of Toxic Work Cultures
Toxic work environments are a major reason why so many people find it hard to enjoy their time off. Fear of career setbacks, inadequate PTO policies, and relentless workplace expectations often keep employees tied to their work even during breaks. For educators like Sadiya Strong, the pressure to stay ahead is constant. “There’s always something to do,” she explained. “Even when the workday ends, the work itself doesn’t.”
Burnout and Retention Risks for Employers
When employees can’t fully disconnect, it’s not just their mental health that suffers—employers face the risk of losing valuable talent. Richard Johnson, associate economist at Glassdoor, warns that burnout and dissatisfaction can drive workers to seek companies that genuinely value employee well-being. Encouraging PTO isn’t just a perk; it’s a retention strategy.
Tips for Successfully Unplugging
For professionals struggling to switch off, planning can be key. Johnson recommends preparing for your time off well in advance, easing back into work upon your return, and not waiting until you’re already burnt out to take PTO. These simple steps can make a significant difference.
A Vacation Buddy Can Help
One creative way to stay accountable is to enlist a “vacation buddy.” Priti Joshi, a VP at Bumble, shared how having someone to remind her to stick to her planned time off helped her prioritize rest. “There will always be urgent work,” she said. “A vacation buddy can be that voice reminding you it’s okay—and necessary—to step away.”
Taking Time Off Benefits Everyone
Unplugging during PTO isn’t just beneficial for employees—it’s an investment in productivity, morale, and overall workplace harmony. By addressing the barriers to disconnecting and fostering a culture of genuine rest, both professionals and employers can thrive. Taking time to recharge isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for long-term success.
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