Written by: Laura Lloyd
Why taking your PTO is crucial to workplace well-being
We’ve talked a lot about workplace well-being and why it’s so important not just to our team but to every company and team. As we head into the summer months, there is so much value in taking your PTO. Taking the time off to rest, relax, and recharge can do so much for your own well-being, which in turn can bring new energy to your workplace. And as leaders, we must lead by example to show our team that it’s not only ok but encouraged to take the PTO and take care of ourselves. The well-being of our workplace depends on it.
At Handler, we set well-being days for our team to encourage them to take the time off. One of my favorite days is giving the team their birthdays off. For me personally, it is so nice to have time away from the office to celebrate with family and friends. I like to select one of my very favorite things to do on my birthday which generally includes a game of tennis and dinner out with my family. This does so much for my well-being!
Even if you aren’t going on a vacation this year, take your PTO to protect yourself. Consider taking summer Fridays off or even taking a staycation and enjoying time with family and friends. What’s that hobby you have that you never have time for? Maybe it’s golf or tennis? Take a day off to yourself to pick it back up again!
I asked a few people on our team to tell me what they like most about well-being days at Handler. Here’s what a few of them said:
At Handler, we encourage our team to take time off, unplug, and recharge. Their well-being is of utmost importance. In 2022, we started a new program called “Energizer Days,” where once a quarter we all enjoy a free day off. In 2023, we are now all enjoying our birthdays as paid days off. We are so fortunate and blessed by a CEO who truly cares about his team. – Alissa
“Energizer Days” at Handler are extra days that allow us to enjoy ourselves without using vacation days. We are encouraged to plan for activities we enjoy, use them as personal days to catch up, or just simply relax. However spent, we return refreshed and energized! It’s great to be a part of a company that invests in our well-being. – Tammy
One of the best parts of working at Handler is our teamwork and it is so important when I am ready to unplug and take a vacation. My Handler teammates manage all of my daily responsibilities and meetings for me, and I am free to step out of work for a few days just to catch my breath and have some fun. I appreciate working for a firm where everyone is 100% for one another. When I return, I’m rested and ready to go with new energy and excitement.
However, here’s a small piece of advice. As you do take your PTO, make sure you totally disconnect. Don’t sneak in an email glance, voicemail check, etc. Be intentional about your time and truly take the day away from work. It will make a world of difference.
Will you join me in the challenge of taking all of our PTO this year and truly investing in our well-being?
