Have you ever had 360 feedback that made you do a 180?  I used to think I was being supportive. I’d encourage my team members to take their PTO by saying, “No one is so important they can’t take PTO.” 

Then I got my 360 feedback results.  Someone had taken the time to write a thoughtful, constructive comment. “Donna says no one is so important they can’t take PTO.  I find this demotivating. I wish she instead would say that I am important, but not all the time.” Wow. That feedback has stuck with me for over 15 years.

At work, you’re important, but not all the time.  At home, you’re important all the time. If you’re taking PTO this holiday season, I hope you make it your own. 

What is the special way you support people to take their PTO?  What is the special way you protect your own PTO?