Managers universally recognize that giving employees time off benefits both the individual and the company, boosting productivity upon their return. “The boost in productivity, creativity, and innovation doesn’t come from those who work excessive hours,” explains Katie Denis, VP and lead researcher at Project: Time Off, in an interview with LinkedIn. “It’s the individuals who step away from their daily grind.”
Much like a battery, people need regular recharging to function optimally.
“All available research indicates that our cognitive resources are finite,” says Allison Gabriel, an assistant professor of management at Virginia Commonwealth University, according to Inc.com. “Constantly depleting these resources diminishes productivity. Once depleted, performance suffers, persistence wanes, and problem-solving becomes more challenging.”
If time off is essential for workplace effectiveness, it is equally crucial for parents. A parent overwhelmed by daily demands cannot function effectively without substantial breaks. Without adequate downtime, parents risk experiencing severe burnout.
Matt Ragland, a productivity expert and advocate for the creator economy, aligns with this perspective. He has adapted his expertise to benefit his role as a father, introducing a concept of “family PTO” or paid time off. In a popular tweet from July 23, Ragland outlines how he and his wife are implementing this approach.
“My wife and I are developing a family PTO plan,” he shared on Twitter. “Here’s our initial framework: one night per week, a half-day weekend each month, and one full weekend day per quarter.”
Under Ragland’s system, one parent takes charge of the children while the other recharges, and then they swap roles.
“Parenting young children is incredibly rewarding, but giving your spouse the gift of time can be profoundly supportive,” Ragland added. “We use these periods to meet friends, sleep in, go camping, play golf (me), go for long runs (her), read, journal, or simply relax. Operating on an empty tank is unsustainable, and these breaks are vital for recharging.”
This arrangement benefits both partners in the relationship. Knowing that they will have their own time off encourages mutual support and provides relief on particularly stressful days, with the reassurance of upcoming breaks.
The children also stand to gain from having parents who are refreshed and energized.
Ragland’s plan has resonated strongly with his followers, many of whom express interest in adopting similar practices for their own families.
One of the most challenging aspects of parenting is losing sight of oneself due to dedicating so much time and energy to family. Ragland’s approach not only provides parents with valuable personal time but also helps them regain a sense of identity.