Vacation time is a vital part of wellness. It allows people to recharge and take a break. In recent years, Americans are taking fewer vacations of a week or more. Why? Why?
Why do Americans take less time off?
Vacation days are a vital part of any employee benefit package. Vacation days are essential for resting, recharging, and resetting. However, the time taken to do so is steadily decreasing. Since 1980, the vacation rate has steadily decreased from 3.3% to today’s 1.7%. Yikes.
Many Americans believe that they can’t take time off work. Many people are anxious or feel guilty about taking time off in a culture that encourages overworking and always being available. It can cause people to not take the time to recharge and relax. Many Americans also feel they do not have time to go on a vacation of a full week. Many Americans struggle to find time to travel and take a week off from work due to their busy schedules.
Will this be the new trend?
Americans tend to choose shorter vacations. They may take a few days off for extended weekends, midweek errands or mental health holidays. It may be that a shorter vacation fits better into your schedule. A week-long trip may not fit your budget right now due to inflation. Elizabeth Yost of University of Central Florida said, “Individuals will weigh the cost/benefit of all of this time off at once.” They found that taking shorter, purposeful vacations was better for them personally and professionally.
Americans may be reluctant to use all their PTO, as they believe they must save it up for personal days and vacations. According to the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), 67% of employers offer PTO plans. This is an increase from 36% of employers in 1995.
Americans are taking fewer week-long holidays. However, it is possible that the future is to take short midweek breaks for errands and mental health. Your employer’s PTO policy will determine how you plan your vacation, but it is important to relax and return to work feeling refreshed.
