N.M should require paid time off
Everyone needs time off from their job. In fact, it is one of the main reasons people choose a job, only second to health insurance.
The work culture in the United States is toxic and often makes employees feel pressured to always be at work. In addition, New Mexico does not mandate vacation and personal paid time off, and many people cannot take time off if they are not being paid for it.
Residents of New Mexico have bills to pay and families to take care of and therefore are not able to take much needed time to recharge. The average worker in the United States who actually does earn vacation and personal PTO gets 10 days a year.
That really is not very much, so why not implement this in New Mexico? While some people may argue giving every employee PTO is not realistic, New Mexico should mandate PTO for every worker because it is conducive to productivity at work, improves the mental and physical health of the employee, and reduces stress which improves physical health as well.
Research shows that more paid vacation time increases productivity, loyalty, and retention.
Recovery time from the stresses of work is essential to continue to work at high levels.
Those who do not take days off, or cannot because they are not paid, end up tired and dissatisfied with their job. And when people are not satisfied at their job, their work suffers, and they may leave and cause the employer to have to find new employees.
Vacation time rejuvenates the mind and body allowing workers to come back well rested, ready to work, and reduces turnover.
Moreover, time off allows employees to see the world differently, which promotes creativity and innovation. Recharging and resting are crucial to productivity and on top of that keeps employees at their jobs, making employers happier.
In my experience, when I was given more paid days off, I was happier with my job and stayed longer. My husband works in construction as a foreman and only gets five paid vacation days a year, while his laborers get none. Many people leave, and the company does not see this as an issue.
The longer an employee is at a company, the more they learn and the more efficient and productive they are at their job.
Employers are losing skilled workers who make them more profitable because they do not give them time to rest.
The positive effects of vacation time are apparent leading up to a vacation and up to a month after the vacation is over, according to researchers.
Imagine that: A month after a person’s vacation is over, they are still more productive, healthy, and happy at work.
By mandating a certain number of paid vacations days a year, New Mexico can give people a better quality of life while also helping employers keep employees who will make their businesses stronger and more profitable in the long run.