We Americans should be ashamed of ourselves! According to Expedia's latest "Vacation Deprivation" study, Americans received - and used - the smallest amount of vacation time. For the 8th year in a row, Americans rank at the bottom for vacation allotments and usage, and throw away an average of three vacation days per year. The horror!
Some specifics to make you sad if you are an American and grateful if you are not:
- Americans get on average 14 paid vacation days/year
- 47.5 million Americans (31%) will not use all their vacation days
- Canadians receive an average of 17 days/year
- British receive an average of 26 days/year
- Germans receive an average of 27 days/year
- Spanish receive an average of 31 days/year
- The French kick everyone's butt with 37 whopping days of vacation a year
This level of "work separation" stress just doesn't translate to our neighbors around the globe. In my international work experience I can attest to that. Just trying getting a hold of a French colleague when they are out on one of their many vacation. In two words: you can't. They shut everything down and their assistants guard their time out of the office like hawks. While it's frustrating if you are trying to close a deal, you can't help but envy them. And, you know what? The business always gets done. Always.
Back to us Americans. While we may feel guilty leaving the office we definitely feel better after we've taken that trip. According to the study 39% of US workers report they feel "more productive and better about their jobs upon returning from vacation." 52% say they feel "rested, rejuvenated and reconnected to their personal lives."
Basic message? Think like the French. Take your vacation time. Try to get more if you can. And, when you are out of the office - really be out of the office.
You'll be glad you did!
Stressed Americans leave 460 million vacation days unused [Marketing Vox]
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