When PTO Gets Denied: Is Honesty Really the Best Policy? 😅

So here’s my dilemma: my parents surprised my boyfriend and me with a dream vacation at the end of August. I was over the moon and immediately put in my PTO request—five weeks in advance, mind you! But guess what? Denied. Apparently, too many people already asked for that week off. I work at a massive insurance company, so it’s not like we’re running on a skeleton crew. I’m honestly exhausted and desperately need this break. Now I’m torn—should I have another awkward conversation with my boss, or just call in sick and deal with the guilt later? Has anyone else been in this situation? I’m seriously stressed and could use some real advice. How do you handle a denied PTO when you really need time off? 😩 #WorkLife #PTOProblems #CareerAdvice #JobCareer