Millennials are grappling with intense guilt over taking paid time off, while Gen Z and Baby Boomers exhibit markedly different attitudes toward vacationing.
At a Glance
- 58% of Millennials feel guilty about taking time off work
- 35% of Gen Zers feel guilty not working during vacations
- Over 60% of new employees delay vacations for at least six months
- Only 21% of Americans used all their available vacation days
- Baby Boomers report the least guilt over taking time off
Millennials Struggle with PTO Guilt
A significant 58% of Millennials report feeling guilty about taking time off work, according to a survey reported by Newsweek. This guilt often stems from workplace cultures that value constant availability, leading many to forgo well-deserved breaks. The fear of returning to a backlog of work and the perception of being replaceable contribute to this anxiety.
Compounding the issue, over 60% of new employees wait at least six months before taking a vacation. This delay, often driven by a desire to prove commitment, can exacerbate stress and hinder overall work-life balance.
Gen Z’s Complex Relationship with Time Off
While Gen Z is often characterized as valuing work-life balance, 35% still feel guilty about not working during vacations. Additionally, 47% feel pressured to check work communications while away, revealing that digital detachment remains elusive even for the youngest workforce.
Despite these pressures, 21% of Gen Zers express frustration with their employers when unable to use their vacation days, and 30% regret not taking more spontaneous trips. These sentiments reflect a deep yearning for real disconnection from work life.
Baby Boomers Embrace Vacation Time
In contrast, Baby Boomers show the least guilt about taking time off, with only 22% admitting to feeling bad about not working during vacations. This generation is significantly more likely to take their full allotment of vacation days and actively prioritize leisure.
Their approach underscores the long-term benefits of using paid time off—not just for rest but for mental health and sustainability in the workplace.
The Broader Implications
The reluctance to take time off has serious consequences. Only 21% of Americans used all their available vacation days, illustrating a widespread issue with underutilized PTO. This trend contributes to burnout, lower job satisfaction, and deteriorating mental health.
Employers have a vital role to play. By fostering cultures that not only allow but encourage time off, they can help reverse these trends. A shift in workplace expectations could empower employees—especially Millennials and Gen Z—to embrace rest without guilt, leading to healthier, more balanced lives.
