Once upon a time, unlimited paid time off was the workplace equivalent of a first-class upgrade—flashy, exclusive, and everyone wanted in. It signaled a progressive, trust-based culture where employees could unplug and recharge at will. It was the benefit—the one sure to catch the eye of exceptional talent.

Fast forward to 2025, and that once-coveted perk is starting to feel more like a mirage: enticing from afar but far less impressive up close. Sure, it sounds generous. “Take all the time you need,” they say. What they don’t say is, “...as long as you’re reachable, available for meetings, and still hitting your KPIs while you’re poolside.”

Spoiler alert: that’s not a vacation.

It's January 2025, and somehow, we're still debating whether employees need to be in the office full-time. Hybrid work has become the standard, and remote work is second nature, so why are some companies so insistent on dragging everyone back into cubicles?

Ah, the holidays—a time for festive cheer, family gatherings, and… chaos in the workplace? Balancing the demands of business with the joys of the season can be a real leadership headache. For many business leaders, navigating team dynamics between work deadlines and holiday festivities is like trying to manage a snowball fight in a blizzard. No matter how organized you are, things tend to fly off the rails. Let's dive into some recent stats, challenges, and tips for keeping your team productive—and sane—this holiday season.

Creating harmony in your life...between your personal and professional priorities! Infographic: 6 steps toward a balanced lifestyle.