Why are Americans not taking their paid time off?
- Takeabreak
- Jun 5
- 2 min read
In a survey of US workers, it was found that 46% take less PTO than they were offered. That is equivalent to more than $312 billion in unused vacation days per year in the US! Of this figure, nearly 5% of US employees don’t take any PTO at all throughout the year. The survey also found that Gen Z and young Millennials (ages 21-34) take on average one week less vacation time than their senior counterparts (ages 55+).
So why are US employees not taking their PTO?
More than half of the survey respondents reported that they felt they “did not need to take more time off”. Others reported not taking PTO for fears of falling behind on work, hurting their chances of advancement, and risk losing their jobs. Some employees worry that taking time off will make them seem replaceable, and are uncomfortable with having other coworkers take on their workload while they are away.
There is also a cultural component. In the US driven workaholic mentality, hustle is equated with production and success. Taking time off can be seen as laziness, weakness, lack of dedication and a non-necessity. Role modeling has a huge effect on PTO culture. If a supervisor does not take vacation themselves, or discourages their employees to take their PTO, then that mentality will stick.
Other survey respondents cited the logistics of taking PTO as their deterrent. The finances of taking a vacation, child care, planning a trip, it can all feel overwhelming.
How does the US compare to other countries?
A ranking of the most productive OECD countries placed the US in 12th place. Many European countries placed ahead of the US. On average, European countries offer 20-30 PTO days per year, compared to the US average of 11 days.
How are European Countries more productive, but take more time off?
Studies show that employees who are healthy, rested, and overall well are more productive and happy. They produce better work, and have a greater overall balance in their life responsibilities. It is also common for European based companies to have weeks set throughout the year where the entire company shuts down for a break that is not included in their PTO. This creates a non-negotiable break for employees, and sets the precedent that taking time off is ok, and celebrated.
How do we change?
Research shows that there are clear benefits to taking PTO, not just for the employees, but for the companies bottom line as well. The US needs to change its views on work culture. Taking PTO needs to be seen as a necessity. Employees should not feel that they are shamed or undedicated for having a life outside of their careers.
What can you do?
Take your PTO! All of it. Make it a non-negotiable.
Plan PTO throughout the year ahead of time. Even if you don't have any specific travel plans, have that time off set in your calendar.
Take personal days, just to do "nothing".
If you are in a management position, be a role model. Encourage your employees to take PTO, and take it yourself.
Practice completely disconnecting from work when you are on PTO.
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