South Dakota Ranks High For Hard Work And Dedication

We already know that we're hard workers in South Dakota, and a lot of people who aren't from here are finding that out too.

Those curious researchers at Wallet Hub crunched a whole bunch of numbers to find out which states have the hardest-working Americans.

Get our free mobile app

READ MORE: Do you know where Fort Dakota was built in Sioux Falls?

South Dakota came in 3rd out of our 50 states, which, when you think about it, really isn't much of a surprise. People in our plains state are notoriously hard-working. And, South Dakota's employment rate is truly noteworthy at 98%.

What is surprising to me is that nationally, Americans average 1,805 working hours per year, and yet they leave 33% of their vacation time unused.

The reasons for this aren't that surprising, though. Some fear that taking vacation time may indicate that they are less dedicated to their jobs than others. Other employees worry about falling behind on their work.

The secret is balance. Working hard - yes, but also knowing that it is important to take a break from your working life may be a key to job longevity.

READ MORE: Sioux Falls honors 9-year-old hero for her bravery.

The factors that Wallet Hub investigated included: average workweek hours, workers with multiple jobs, commute times, volunteer hours, and leisure time spent. South Dakotans came in 17th for the number of workers toiling at multiple jobs.

There is a downside to all this good news about hard-working Americans, and that is that Americans work more hours, take less vacation time, and retire later than the working populace in most other countries.

So while it is flattering that we're being recognized as the hardest-working humans on the planet, maybe we should start taking a break here and there.

For more information or to see the complete report, check out Wallet Hub.

Source: Wallet Hub