Vacations beneficial to the economy, as well as workers

According to the calendar and the weather, summer has returned to our area. For many, summer is typically associated with vacation time. Some people prefer summer locales for vacationing while others are motivated by school, summer vacation schedules.

Numerous studies, ranging from those conducted by travel related organizations to psychological and social sciences organizations at universities, have concluded that there are significant benefits to taking vacations. The benefits typically cited are reduced stress, greater productivity when one returns from vacations, and a better physical well-being.

“The impact that taking a vacation has on one’s mental health is profound,” said Francine Lederer, a clinical psychologist in Los Angeles who specializes in stress and relationship management. “Most people have better life perspective and are more motivated to achieve their goals after a vacation, even if it is a 24-hour time-out.”

An Expedia survey found that 45 percent of Americans agreed that “they come back to work feeling rested, rejuvenated, and reconnected to their personal life” after vacation, and 35 percent said “they return from vacation feeling better about their job and feeling more productive.”

Personally, I would add that vacations offer learning opportunities by visiting museums, events, cultural experiences, and the list goes on. Universities and colleges offer courses during summer for personal enrichment and credit. Also, new activities can be learned, shared and improved at venues across the country and around the world.

Nearly all the studies I reviewed found that the United States is in the lowest quadrant of industrial nations for the number of vacation days offered by employers. Additionally, the U.S. is among the lowest nations in number of vacation days taken. Surprisingly, among the industrial nations, the United States was among the few that did not have a legislative national minimum of vacation days.

Respondents in another study cited the amount of work that awaited their return from a vacation as one of the reasons not to vacation. Another reason for shirking vacations was the competition for positions. It was felt, by some, that taking vacation would place them in a less advantageous competitive stance versus their coworkers.

There are economic benefits to taking vacations. I have not heard anyone say they went on vacation and did not spend any money. Even a “staycation” can have associated expenses. Some states and numerous countries receive a significant portion of their annual revenue from sales taxes on hotels, rental cars, amusement taxes, etc., associated with the travel and hospitality industries. Typically, these industries are major employers.

Management teams should work to provide an environment where employees utilize vacation days, remain competitive and have the opportunity for improved personal well-being. Managers have an opportunity to lead by example when it comes to vacations.