Written by: Kristine Keykal, M.P.H. | Co-Founder & CEO of AdvantageHealth
Supporting employee PTO isn't just a nice gesture—it's a strategic investment in both individual and organizational success. By prioritizing rest, recharge, and renewal, management can boost productivity, prevent burnout, foster a positive company culture, and lead by example. So let's make taking time off not just an option but a celebrated and encouraged practice in our workplace.
Let's advocate for a cultural shift—one where taking time off is not only encouraged but fully supported by management. Supporting employee PTO (Paid Time Off) is not just beneficial but essential for both individual and organizational wellbeing.
1. Rest, Recharge, and Renewal: Taking time off allows employees to step away from the daily grind, rest their minds and bodies, and return feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Just like a well-oiled machine, our minds and bodies need regular maintenance to perform at their best. Encouraging employees to take time off ensures they have the opportunity to rest, recharge, and come back to work with renewed energy and focus.
2. Boosting Productivity and Creativity: Contrary to the belief that working longer hours leads to increased productivity, research has shown that regular breaks and time off actually enhance performance. When employees take time off, they have the chance to decompress, engage in activities they enjoy, and gain new perspectives. This can lead to increased creativity, problem-solving abilities, and overall productivity when they return to work.
3. Preventing Burnout and Promoting Mental Health: Burnout is a serious issue in today's workplaces, with long hours and high stress levels taking a toll on employees' mental and physical health. By supporting PTO, management can help prevent burnout and promote better mental health among employees. Taking time off allows individuals to manage stress, spend quality time with loved ones, and engage in activities that bring them joy—essential ingredients for overall wellbeing.
4. Fostering a Positive Company Culture: A company that values and supports employee wellbeing creates a positive and inclusive culture where employees feel valued and appreciated. When management actively encourages taking time off, it sends a powerful message that employees' health and happiness are top priorities. This, in turn, fosters loyalty, trust, and a sense of belonging among team members, leading to higher employee engagement and retention rates.
5. Leading by Example: As leaders, it's essential to lead by example. When management takes time off and openly communicates the importance of work-life balance, it sets a precedent for employees to do the same. By demonstrating a healthy approach to work-life integration, leaders inspire their teams to prioritize self-care and wellbeing, creating a more balanced and fulfilling work environment for everyone.
AdvantageHealth offers many webinars/seminars on this topic including:
Self-care for Busy Professionals
Self-care: Do You Make Yourself a Priority?
Relax Your Body, Calm Your Mind
Relaaaaax
#DOMOREWITHLESS: Managing Stress, Time and Energy
Schedule A Consultation
Email Kristine at kkeykal@advantagehealth.com to get started or call 612.823.4470 (select option “1”).
Let Kristine Keykal, M.P.H, co-founder of AdvantageHealth with over 25 years of experience, consult with you on your employee wellness program.
Since 2001, Minnesota-based AdvantageHealth has been delivering award-winning employee wellbeing programs and fitness center design & management throughout the U.S.