This Labor Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the importance of the American worker. This national holiday was originally created to honor the achievements of American workers but somewhere along the way it turned into a great reason to have an end-of-summer picnic and go to a baseball game.
By all means enjoy these fantastic time-honored Labor Day traditions. However, you might consider – while relaxing on your picnic blanket or during the seventh inning stretch of your baseball game – the many contributions American workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.
We Americans work really hard. In fact, According to the ILO (International Labor Organization), “Americans work 137 more hours per year than Japanese workers, 260 more hours per year than British workers, and 499 more hours per year than French workers.”
And by and large we like our work. Gallup’s research indicates that just under half of American workers, 47%, are completely satisfied with their job, while 42% are somewhat satisfied, and a combined 11% are either completely or somewhat dissatisfied.
Our country’s continued success depends on the American worker’s many talents. We hold the answers to the complex problems that are evident in our nation and in the world. Let’s rest up this Labor Day and hit it hard come Tuesday.
Happy Labor Day!