SHRM President and Chief Executive Officer Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, is answering HR questions as part of a series for USA Today.
Do you have an HR or work-related question you'd like him to answer? Submit it here.
My company has been woefully understaffed for months now with no end in sight. We've been so busy that I have felt guilty about taking days off. Though I probably need one, I haven't taken vacation yet this year and don't have anything planned for the rest of the year. My manager hasn't taken one either. Should I take a vacation at some point in a year? —Kirsten
Johnny C. Taylor, Jr.: The short and long answer is yes! Whether it is a long-weekend trip, staycation, vacation or sabbatical, we all need some time away from work. Understandably, since the onset of the pandemic, the world of work has been seemingly upended, leading to many workers taking on greater responsibilities. And in a tight labor market, workers are being spread even thinner. Long hours and limited time off have contributed to elevated workplace fatigue, stress and burnout.
If your manager is burning the candle at both ends, you may feel obligated to do the same. However, continuing to work without some sort of reprieve will eventually start to have diminishing returns. Self-care is equally as important as your commitment to the organization. I would submit that self-care actually enhances your commitment to your work.
The truth is we are fully human with inherent limits. Taking time...
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