Why does taking time off from work feel like breaking the rules? In this episode, we dive into the guilt and anxiety so many professionals carry when they step away from their jobs.

From the flood of emails that never stop, to the fear that chaos will erupt in your absence, to the subtle guilt trips from colleagues, time off can feel anything but restful. On top of that, many of us wrestle with what I call “hero anxiety”: the constant pressure to rescue everyone, hold everything together, and be the one others rely on—even at the expense of our own well-being.

Together, we’ll unpack the root causes of PTO guilt, how hero anxiety keeps us trapped in over-responsibility, and practical ways to set boundaries, reframe your mindset, and give yourself permission to truly disconnect.

Because rest isn’t selfish—it’s the fuel that allows you to return grounded, focused, and ready to grow.