• by Fern Siegel , April 16, 2025

Americans work hard — yet are often reluctant to take breaks.

A YouGov survey found 52% of U.S. workers feel somewhat guilty when taking time off to take care of themselves. That feeling widened in a gender gap: 55% of women vs. 49% of men.

A new ad by Halfday, a gut-healthy ice tea, encourages everyone to enjoy downtime, guilt-free.

The brand's new ad "PTO PSA"  runs on social media and online. The work was produced in-house by Halfday and directed by content creator Elliott Walker.

The Philadelphia-based Halfday, co-founded by Mike Lombardo and Kayvon Jahanbakhsh, is also inviting consumers to nominate  an overworked friend, colleague or loved one who needs a break. Winners enjoy a cash prize to use on their afternoon off for self-care.

"At Halfday, we're big believers in balance — and that means stepping away from the grind every once in a while," Lombardo told Out to Launch. The new "Halfday Break" campaign is all about encouraging U.S. workers to finally do it — and free good about it. Whether it's a spa day, gold session or just logging off without guilt, we're giving people cash to make it happen."