There’s nothing quite like anticipating the holiday season: Magical scenery, reconnecting with far-flung family and friends, dusting off beloved movies and traditions, and getting some well-deserved time off. But for many off us, that “time off” can start to feel like another job, used up with shopping, year-end deadlines, and dutifully attending social gatherings.

If you’re taking PTO this December to extend your holiday break, what can you do to make sure it actually leaves you rested – not running on empty?

1. Be Intentional

Take a few minutes to plan what you really want from your time off. Is it rest? Family connection? Quiet reflection? Once you know your goal, you can set boundaries that help you achieve it, like blocking one full day just for yourself or saying no to that fifth holiday party.

2. Personalize Your PTO

Turn that Paid Time Off into Personal Time Off. Sleep in. Take long walks. Enjoy coffee that’s not in a travel mug. True rest doesn’t always mean doing nothing; it’s about choosing activities that recharge you. For some, that’s a hike or a creative project. For others, it’s a weekend – or a few midweek days – in pajamas with a good book or a favorite show.

3. Don’t Let Errands Hijack Your Holiday

The temptation to use PTO to “get things done” is strong, but if you fill every day with grocery runs, gift wrapping, sink scrubbing, and laundry, you’ll go back to work more tired than when you left. Try batching errands early or sharing the load with family. Treat yourself to a house cleaning service. At a minimum, give yourself the gift of at least one full day from chores entirely to use as a personal recharge day.

4. Manage Family Time Mindfully

Even joyful gatherings can feel draining if you don’t build in breathing space. Give yourself permission to step away when you need to — take a walk, sneak a nap, or decompress with some quiet time after big get-togethers. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

5. Resist Perfection Pressure

Many of us have memories of the “perfect” holiday – the perfect meal that mom cooked; the perfect tree your grandfather cut down; the perfect sweater that someone close to you knitted. Resist any self-imposed pressure in trying to recreate that holiday perfection. Instead, keep in mind that there was probably a lot of imperfection in those “perfect” memories: a turkey that didn’t get done in time, meal items that someone forgot to buy, or some lumps in the gravy that mortified the cook. But you – and others – don’t remember those as much as you do the fun and sincere joy that came with being among people you care about. And, sometimes what seems like a “holiday horror” at the time can become fun holiday stories to be laughed about later!

6. Finally, Ease Back In

If you can, schedule your return thoughtfully — maybe plan a shorter first day back or keep your calendar light. Give yourself space to transition from relaxation to routine without too much withdrawal whiplash – and try not to get overwhelmed by your inbox!

The bottom line: With a little mindfulness, it is possible to both enjoy the holidays and recharge. You’ve earned your PTO, so make it work for you this December.