Long hours at work will have negative consequences in the future.

A study in 2018 revealed an interesting fact: full-time employees in the U.S. had an average of 23 paid vacation days but only used 17 of them. Personally, I find it hard to understand why someone wouldn’t take advantage of paid time off. These days don’t roll over; they expire. If you have the opportunity to get paid without working, why not take it?

There could be a few reasons for this. Some individuals might genuinely love their jobs and prefer spending their time working. However, for many, there’s a belief that taking paid time off is seen as a sign of weakness. Some think that working tirelessly is the only way to succeed in their careers. While there may be companies that promote this mindset, most employers expect their staff to use their paid vacation days when needed.

Paid time off is there for moments when you need a break from work and can afford to take time for yourself without jeopardizing your job. Even if you enjoy working, it’s essential to not exhaust all your time and energy on it continuously. Prioritizing your mental health is crucial, and there’s no shame in taking a day off when necessary, especially when you’re paid for it.