Time Off

We all have the right to take part in time off. Living in Europe has shown me that Americans work a lot. What's worse is that we aren't always compensated well (I mean vacation time).

Europeans get at least two weeks paid vacation and if you live in Spain: the month of August. I read an article that gives tips on the "right way" to ask your employer for time off. I thought the article was superfluous. What's wrong with going to the Human Resources Department to ask for time off? Provided you give enough notice, which I assume varies from company to company (and job to job), it should be as routine as payday.

I feel the only consideration to make when asking for time off is common sense. Decide what's appropriate for your job position, and your contract, then go for it.

Take retail for example: if you are hired as seasonal staff or it's the holiday season than you will not be allowed to ask for time off during those times. Obviously, these are the busiest times of year. I worked for Sears in the jewelry department when I graduated from college. The full time employees were unable to take time off on Valentine's Day or the weeks leading up to it. It's one of the busiest times for that department, it was argued, so time off wasn't granted.

However, many jobs require its employees to work shifts. It's the same practice most retailers use. It allows them to have more flexibility. This practice can definitely be a positive for the employed. As long as there are enough workers to cover shifts, time off can be planned with no detriment to the employer. I have worked jobs where I've simply asked my co-workers if they could cover my shift. In exchange, of course, for returning the favor at a later date. That way he or she is more likely to help out and you leave no one short-staffed.

It may seem trivial, but time off is essential for mental health. We all know stress affects the body negatively. So take advantage of time off. It's good for you and your right.


By: Samantha Taylor

Samantha is a Boston, Massachusetts native. Her studies have taken her from Ohio to England, where she lived for two years. Currently, Samantha lives in Andalucía, Spain, with her husband. She is a writer for Nexxt and contributes to one of its many blogs: retailgigsblog.com. She also works as an English teacher and personal trainer in her spare time.