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:
- 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.
- Probe what is holding them back. Is it management expectations? Process complications? Outdated norms?
- Suggest a pilot where everyone agrees to take their vacation – so the team can feel the collective benefits.
- 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.
- 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!
Do you have a burning question for your work.life? Equipt is here for you. Whether you prefer to type it out or record a voice memo, simply drop us a line at community@equiptwomen.com.