Ever felt torn between family expectations and your own well-being? Last month, I stumbled upon a story that hit home in a way I didn't expect. It was from a Business Insider article titled "My dad's angry that I don't want to waste my PTO on our family's annual lake trip. Do I have to go?" and it presented a conflict many of us know too well. The dilemma of using precious paid time off (PTO) on events that don’t bring joy — especially when family is involved — is tougher than it sounds.

Let’s unpack this: Why is it so hard to say no to family? Why does guilt sneak in as soon as we even consider missing out on a traditional get-together, especially when it means choosing our own peace of mind? And how does this weigh on our mental health and emotional wellness?

The Unspoken Expectation Trap

The letter writer in the article described a yearly lake trip that feels more like a chore than a cherished memory. She’s hesitant to