Too many Americans skip their PTO, sacrificing health, energy, and focus. Discover why taking vacation matters and how to make it happen without stress.
In today’s always-on culture, Americans are leaving their paid time off (PTO) unused.
A 2024 survey found that 47% of Americans left PTO on the table, even though 61% said they wished they had more (HR Daily Advisor). Another study reported that 62% of workers didn’t use all their vacation time in 2023, with unused PTO worth nearly $3,000 per worker (Money.com).
This isn’t just about lost dollars. Research shows vacations can:
Reduce mortality by ~20%
Cut heart-disease deaths by ~30% (Washington Post)
Boost mood, sleep, and motivation for weeks after returning (UGA News)
Even the act of planning can lift happiness for 8 weeks before departure (Cleveland Clinic).
A Real-Life Example
Take “Emma,” a mom in her mid-50s with three kids (1 just out of college, 1 still in it, and 1 in high school). Both she and her husband hold demanding leadership roles, and family schedules rarely align.
Their family loved the idea of a summer trip, but the thought of planning the logistics is daunting—matching calendars, choosing a destination, managing costs.
When Emma reached out, we planned a cruise that solved it all: one trip, multiple destinations, built-in activities for every age, and no repacking.
Instead of stress, the family came home with memories and a reminder of how vital it is to pause and reconnect.
Why So Much PTO Goes Unused
Workplace pressures: Many employees fear falling behind or burdening coworkers (Pew Research).
Hustle culture: In the U.S., overwork is often mistaken for commitment (Calendar.com).
Systemic factors: Unlike Europe, the U.S. has no federally mandated vacation. Most workers earn just 10 days after a year of service (Wikipedia).
The Payoff of Taking Time Off
Vacations aren’t indulgences. They are performance enhancers. Time away helps:
Lower stress
Sharpen focus
Improve heart health (ClevelandHeartLab)
Even short breaks reset energy and creativity. And when leaders model unplugging, it gives their teams permission to do the same.
If planning feels overwhelming, consider working with a travel advisor who can simplify logistics and help turn PTO into rest and renewal, rather than just adding to your to-do list.