Q&A: How to Combat Vacation Stigma?

Aug 7, 2023 | Burning Question, Navigating workplace dynamics

question

I’m all for taking my vacation, but most of my colleagues don’t, and they frown upon me for doing so. They fear they will be judged as uncommitted, a slacker, or worse, dispensable. What do I do?

Kyra, 27

That must be frustrating. You’re right to want to take your vacation days – it’s part of your compensation, after all. You have a few options:

  1. Share the research (some of it is provided in this blog post) so they understand the importance and value of vacation – to the company and you. 🙌
  2. Probe what is holding them back. Is it management expectations? Process complications? Outdated norms? 🕵️‍♀️
  3. Suggest a pilot where everyone agrees to take their vacation – so the team can feel the collective benefits.🤝
  4. Talk to your manager to see if old policies can be updated (see inspiring examples in this blog post) or if expectations can be reset for the team. 🔄
  5. Last, if none of that works, take your vacation. Unapologetically. You earned it. 💪

So go ahead, grab that sunhat, relax on the beach, and make the most of your well-deserved time off! 🏖️🌞

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