Unlimited PTO? More Like Unlimited Stress.

Back in my founder days, my company had an unlimited PTO policy. The idea was simple: allow employees to rest and enjoy life as needed. The reality was different. This benefit was rarely used, especially by me. I’d work five days a week and most weekends, the opposite of unlimited PTO. As a founder in the 2010s, that was the perceived norm, but it left me not burned out, but on a slow smolder all the time. All that time in the office, being “productive,” was likely hampered by the fact that I never took time for myself to mentally recover.

The Founder’s Paradox: Why We Can’t Step Away

It wasn’t just about appearances or dedication; there was a deeper fear lurking beneath the surface. The fear of missing out, of falling behind, of the company crumbling without my constant presence. It’s a paradox many founders face: we build something we’re passionate about, only to become trapped by it.

The Hidden Stress That’s Killing Us

An NIH study showed that there is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease right after retirement. This highlights the hidden stress we carry, often without realizing it. The constant pressure to perform, meet deadlines, and achieve goals takes a toll. We become so accustomed to this state of stress that we consider it normal.

The Unlimited PTO Trap

Unlimited PTO often translates to no PTO. The fear of falling behind, appearing less dedicated, or missing out on opportunities keeps us chained to our desks. It’s a subtle pressure that affects us all, but research shows women, in particular, feel guilty taking time off, fearing they haven’t earned it or will fall behind.

The Four-Day Unwind

So you’re finally going to commit to some time off to unwind, how long should that be, at least? A study on American vacation habits found it takes four days to truly unwind on vacation. This means a long weekend barely scratches the surface of relaxation. We need to break free from the work mindset, let go of worries, and allow our minds and bodies to de-stress fully.

The Ideal Vacation: One Week to Bliss

So how long should that vacation be? It is suggested that a week-long vacation is ideal. It provides enough time to unwind, enjoy the experience, and then gently transition back to work mode. Shorter vacations can feel rushed, while longer ones can lead to a routine that diminishes the novelty and relaxation benefits.

The Bottom Line

Taking time off is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. It allows us to recharge, gain perspective, and return to work with renewed energy and focus. Time off has plenty of benefits, whether it be mental, physical, and even spiritual, including improved mood, reduced stress, and enhanced creativity. I’ve personally found that stepping away, even for a few days, helps me see problems from a new angle and return with fresh ideas.

So, let’s break free from the chains of work and embrace the power of rest and relaxation. Take that PTO, plan that vacation, and allow yourself to truly unwind. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.

That’s all for today,
.M

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