Here's what unlimited vacation time does to us

“What, really? Unlimited vacation days? I can hardly believe it…” This is the first reaction I often hear as the People Development Manager at Megawatt when this topic comes up. Since January 2023, we have launched a pilot that perfectly aligns with our vision to “supercharge” both people and brands—in that exact order. For us, energy primarily means maintaining a healthy work-life balance. When that balance is present, energy becomes contagious rather than draining. “But are they really unlimited vacation days?” The idea is simple, but it’s a bit more nuanced.

Imagine this: it’s both Friday and Saturday, and you’re busy on set as a creative, or you’re running from place to place as a project manager at a bustling location. Would you take a day off afterward to catch your breath? Often, we skip such opportunities. Unfortunately, we still too often regard vacations as a limited resource that will one day run out. This mindset is where an imbalance arises between the pressure to perform and the need to recharge. Empowering employees to manage their own time gives them the freedom to better regulate their energy levels.

What exactly does “unlimited” mean?

As the word suggests: unlimited, endless, unbounded, unfettered—you name it! This means employees decide how many days off they take, without a set maximum. Based on mutual trust and a strong sense of responsibility, we encourage employees to make the most of this benefit. It’s about cultivating a culture where everyone feels free to get the rest they deserve.

With 1.6 million Dutch people struggling with burnout symptoms, it’s increasingly clear that we need to adopt progressive initiatives to promote space (for moments that really matter) and desired flexibility. At the same time, we see the job market evolving and rejuvenating. We observe changing norms and values, alongside a growing demand for flexibility and freedom. From unlimited vacation days to flexible working hours and work-from-home options, we continuously seek innovative solutions that align with Megawatt’s core values and foster a healthy work-life balance.

Introducing a new policy naturally comes with questions and concerns: Does everyone feel they have enough space? How does it affect team dynamics? Will it be received positively? Our 2023 pilot reassured us that we are on the right track. An internal survey revealed that 95% of our employees prefer the policy of unlimited vacation days over a fixed number of days. The reasons? An increased sense of autonomy, freedom, and flexibility. Employees experience less stress and greater peace of mind, as they no longer worry about an expiring vacation balance and can take more spontaneous time off. As one employee put it, “I don’t have to ‘ration’ my days anymore; I take time off when I need it.”

Lead by example

An essential aspect of “unrestricted” days is also feeling the freedom to actually take those days off. Management and team leads themselves take the vacation they need, fostering a culture where this is encouraged. In other words, they lead by example. Additionally, we monitor vacation usage within the organization on a quarterly basis to ensure that everyone gets the rest they need. This helps to encourage any “stragglers” to take time for themselves as well.

As the People Development Manager at Megawatt, I am proud of the management’s confidence in this pilot. As I sip another cocktail from my beach chair, I look with pride at the successful integration of this fitting addition to our employee benefits. This is how we continue to build an organization where everyone comes to work energized and leaves with just as much energy. Santé!