If you look around the Lowcountry this summer, you'll see no shortage of visitors and that's a good thing. They're using their hard-earned vacation time to relax at the beach and take a break from the busyness of life.

We could learn a thing or two from their example. A recent survey by the travel news site Skift found that 42 percent of Americans with paid time off don't use it. The U.S. Travel Association considers it a serious issue that not only means less productivity from a burned-out workforce, but an economic issue as well with millions in lost revenue to the travel industry.  

A study commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association found that 91 percent of senior managers believe that employees who return from paid time off return to work recharged and more productive and research proves that to be true. So why do we seem to have such a hard timing leaving the office?

It's a number of factors. For many of us, it's fear of the workload that greets us upon our return. Studies show that for some workers it's the lingering fear that they will be viewed as less dedicated or productive. We have a culture of busyness and an attitude of 24/7 productivity that keeps many of us from using the vacation time we've earned. Even while vacationing the study showed that many of us have a tough time disconnecting with 46 percent responding to emails and checking in with the office.

If we knew of a medicine that would make us less stressed, more productive, closer to your family and friends and improve your positive outlook on life, Americans would be clamoring for a prescription. That pill exists and it's called vacation. No doctor needed. You can write your own prescription. Writer Anna Quindlen wisely noted you'll never be truly great at your work if your work is all that you are. She's right. Many of us should use some time off to recharge our batteries.

Look around this week. Notice the families on our leisure paths, enjoying the water and laughing at the restaurant. We should all aspire to be them this year.

Have a great week!

Sincerely,

Bill Miles, IOM, CCE

President & CEO

Follow Me on Twitter @MilesatChamber