If you’ve been Googling “how to reclaim your PTO” or feel guilty asking for time off, you’re not alone. A 2025 survey by LiveCareer reveals that despite generous vacation policies, most American workers use less than one week of their paid time off (PTO). Worse, some feel pressured by managers or company culture to skip vacations entirely. But unused PTO isn’t just lost time—it’s lost money, energy, and wellbeing. Here’s how to reclaim your PTO and finally take the breaks you’ve earned—without the guilt.

Plan Ahead to Reclaim Your PTO with Intention

Start by mapping out the full year ahead using 100% of your allotted PTO. Think about birthdays, family obligations, personal days, and dream vacations. You don’t need to submit it all at once—but sketching out your ideal time off increases your chances of actually taking it. Would you prefer multiple long weekends or one big international trip? Either way, block time on a private calendar at home to keep your goals top of mind and create excitement around your upcoming breaks.

Make It Easy for Your Boss to Say Yes

Next, study your company’s time-off policy. Learn when and how to request vacation days, and plan around seasonal workloads. If your manager tends to be difficult, time your ask carefully—when they’re in a good mood or after a team win. Show you’ve thought ahead by creating a simple out-of-office plan: who will cover your tasks, how they’ll report back, and how to reach you only in true emergencies. The more prepared you are, the more likely they’ll approve your PTO.

Prepare a Contingency Plan (Then Truly Unplug)

To reclaim your PTO stress-free, create backup systems for the time you’ll be away. Delegate tasks clearly, communicate expectations to your coworkers, and define when (or if) you’re available during your break. If needed, choose a vacation destination that’s off the grid—or at least in a time zone that discourages constant check-ins. Knowing you’ve set up safeguards will help you relax, and your employer will appreciate your professionalism.

Use PTO to Rest—or Build Your Future

Not every vacation has to be spent on a beach. If your current job isn’t fulfilling, use your time off to explore new possibilities—work on a side project, attend a career workshop, or build your personal brand. As author Seth Godin puts it, “Maybe you should set up a life you don’t need to escape from.” But no matter how you use it, taking PTO is your right—and a powerful tool to recharge or reinvent. Don’t waste it.