Remote workers these days have plenty of benefits like not having to commute, having a good work-life balance, and saving money on work clothes and other job-related expenses. But some employees are taking it a step further by taking time off without officially using their vacation days. This trend, called “hush-cations,” might seem funny, but it can have serious consequences.
What exactly is a ‘hush-cation’?
“Hush-cations” are becoming popular on social media and in popular culture. People are working remotely as agreed upon but not from the location their boss expects them to be, explained Smriti Joshi, a chief psychologist in Boston. This trend wasn’t possible before fully remote jobs became common, presenting a new challenge for employers.
What has led to the trend of ‘hush-cations’?
Employees desire autonomy, flexibility, and control over their work environment. Combined with a fear of losing these freedoms as more companies call workers back to the office, employees are taking matters into their own hands. They want to work under their terms and see where they work as a decision they should make.
Is burnout causing ‘hush-cations’?
Many modern work trends, including hush-cations, are linked to stress and burnout among employees. People are looking for ways to relieve the pressure they feel at work, leading to creative solutions like hush-cations. Organizations need to prioritize mental health and well-being initiatives to address these issues.
What else is fueling the trend?
Social media plays a big role in popularizing trends like hush-cations. Once people start talking about these practices online, it inspires others to do the same. With summer approaching, more people might opt for hush-cations to enjoy the warm weather while saving their official vacation days for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
What should employers do if they find out about a hush-cation?
If managers discover that an employee took time off without reporting it, they should approach the situation carefully. Managers should talk to the employee to understand why they did it and whether it was intentional or a mistake. It’s crucial to remind employees of the company’s time-off policy and ensure that all time off is properly recorded.
In conclusion, hush-cations are a growing trend among remote workers looking for more freedom and control over their work lives. While it might seem harmless to some, it can have consequences for both employees and employers. Organizations need to address the root causes of these trends, such as burnout and stress, to create a healthier work environment for everyone involved.