Around July or August I start reviewing how much PTO everyone has left. If they have a couple weeks, it might worth dropping a hint to take some time off or you end up forcing them to take off the month of December (happened 3 times so far). Rest and recovery are important - at least that’s what every instagram influencer tells me - but taking time away from the mill of work has compounding effects. For me, sharper focus and new perspectives. Also weekends sometimes aren’t enough as life is busy! You have a super view of how folks are consuming the PTO and you can set an example. I try to approve PTO as quickly as possible.

Early in my career I had to over describe the value of PTO to a new hire who had come from a pure retail background. I had to stress and stress again that they can easily take a sick day or decide to extend the next weekend without issue or comment. At first this was a big surprise to them as they were used to fighting for each day of PTO. I just accepted and approved whatever they wanted. If I’m not arguing about if they can, then the only way I can show my acceptance of PTO is to approve the request with speed - slam that approval button as quickly as possible.

Part of a salaried contract is the benefit of PTO. The company is saying “don’t work X days a year and we will pay you” - the company is telling you not to work and you will still get paid. So use the PTO and enjoy getting paid to relax.

I didn’t use AI for this, but did plug it into a word counter/spell checker. Pretty good spellar today