When you’re new to an organization, it can feel awkward or uncomfortable asking for time off. However, know that we all need time off from work and there’s no such thing as “earning” a break.

• Your relationship with your employer is a transactional one. That means, your company employs your time and energy to produce the results in exchange for certain benefits. Likewise, you should take advantage of the perks your organization can offer to protect your well-being.
• If you have a vacation planned before starting a new job, you can bring up your plans during the hiring process or in the first week of your start date. Inform your boss, explain why it’s important to you, and make a plan to ensure that you miss out on your onboarding and early projects.
• In case you don’t have a planned vacation, use the first 90 days to understand the company culture about leaves. Educate yourself about the leave policies to know what you’re entitled to. You can also observe how others use paid leave in the office, how often they take breaks, and whether the culture encourages and supports employees’ taking time off. As you do, build trust and rapport with your boss and team members. This will make it easier for you to ask for time off and help you find colleagues willing to cover for you.
• Finally, if the company culture isn’t very supportive of taking breaks or long vacations, remind yourself that it’s not you. As long as your policy states that you’re entitled to days off, you can and should be able to take them.