You may have already been introduced to “quiet vacationing,” the latest evolution in the work-life balance saga, but are you indeed “off the grid”?

Quiet vacationing — an increasingly adopted phenomenon among remote workers — is about taking a break without officially checking out. With offices shuttered and remote opportunities plentiful, many employees have seemingly taken the opportunity to blend work with leisure. Whether answering emails and hopping on Zoom calls between yoga sessions or while lounging by the pool, it has served as a strategy for those wanting to escape without fully unplugging, and particularly for those who feel too overwhelmed at work to request PTO.

However, is the concept of quiet vacationing too good to be true? And is it as productive as some make it out to be?

The Rise of Quiet Vacationing

This concept is gaining traction among professionals who are caught between the pressure to perform and the desire to unwind. While some might see it as the ideal way to manage work stress, others argue it’s a symptom of a deeper issue within modern work culture.

However, the idea of mixing work with vacation suggests a shift towards “down-low” vacations, where relaxation is balanced with the ever-present demands of a job. The caveat is that although this may seem like an effective way to boost productivity under the guise of staying connected, it can hinder performance.

The Millennial and Gen Z Influence

Naturally, this trend is driven by the work hard, play hard mentality prevalent among millennial and Gen Z professionals. These generations have redefined traditional work boundaries, leading to new norms like working remotely from tropical destinations or integrating wellness routines into workdays. According to Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report, the top priority for travelers is not just to explore new places but to rest and recharge. For many, quiet vacationing offers a way to recharge without completely disconnecting — a middle ground that resonates with younger workers who are accustomed to fluid work environments.

The Downside of Not Truly Unplugging

Yet, there’s an irony in this trend. While quiet vacationing might seem like the best of both worlds, it can blur the lines between rest and work, potentially leading to two outcomes: burnout rather than relief, or diminished productivity and accomplishment of professional goals.

Furthermore, there’s a growing recognition that true rest requires complete detachment from work. The constant need to be available, even during vacation, can undermine the purpose of taking time off in the first place.

The Implications for Both Businesses and Employees

For businesses, quiet vacationing could pose a dilemma. On one hand, it gives a false sense of maintaining productivity while taking care of mental and physical health. On the other hand, it may lead to inefficiencies and a workforce that is never truly rested. Companies need to consider the long-term impact of this trend on employee well-being and overall performance. Encouraging genuine time off, where employees can disconnect fully, might ultimately benefit both the individual and the organization.

For employees, this could easily lead to burnout and falling into the cycle of always playing catch-up as they may fall behind on designated tasks and responsibilities.

What Now?

As we continue through 2025, the trend of quiet vacationing is likely to grow, especially among those who feel the need to stay “always on.” However appealing as this hybrid approach may seem, it’s important to recognize the value of true downtime.

By staying attuned to this trend, you can craft a strategy that encourages team members to truly unplug, helping them find the balance they need.

Melissa Mango is the president and founder of Alliance Connection. This article was originally published by Alliance Connection and has been republished with permission.