Taking the Stress Out of Taking Time Off: Reducing Workplace Anxiety Through Flexible Policies and a Culture of Trust, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article examines how lack of separation between work and personal life in today's fast-paced workplace can negatively impact employee well-being, productivity, and retention. Constant connectivity from new technologies enables an "always on" culture where fully disengaging from work during non-work hours or vacations is challenging. Extensive research establishes the importance of work-life balance and taking proper time off to reduce stress, burnout, and health risks. Organizations suffer too from reduced performance and increased absenteeism when employees cannot relax and recharge away from job responsibilities. The article proposes that organizations implement flexible work policies, lead by example with boundary modeling from managers, and cultivate a culture valuing time off. Practical recommendations include establishing clear time-off guidelines, protecting personal time on calendars, and educating on the benefits of rest and recovery. Industry case studies demonstrate how companies have successfully instituted measures empowering employees to fully disconnect from work during leave for individual and company gains.