The holiday season is here, but are you really taking time off? In this episode of The Long-Distance Worklife, Wayne and Marisa dive into the importance of using your PTO, setting boundaries with work, and creating intentional plans to recharge during the holidays. Learn strategies for resisting the urge to check work emails, protecting your time, and collaborating with your team to ensure everyone gets the break they deserve. Plus, discover why unplugging is vital for your mental health and productivity.

Whether you're struggling with holiday guilt, a recovering workaholic, or simply unsure how to navigate PTO as a remote worker, this episode has actionable advice to help you thrive.

Key Takeaways

1. Plan Your PTO Today: If you have unused PTO, schedule it now. Use it to rest, recharge, and reflect on your accomplishments.
2. Set Boundaries: Silence notifications, turn off work alerts, and resist the urge to check your inbox during time off.
3. Be Intentional: Create small plans that bring you joy, whether it's reading a book, enjoying coffee dates, or scheduling social activities.
4. Communicate with Your Team: Plan ahead with colleagues to ensure adequate coverage during holiday breaks. Use tools like Slack or email scheduling to respect others' time off.
5. Unplug Guilt-Free: Remember, taking PTO isn't just a perk—it's essential for maintaining work-life balance and long-term productivity.