Each year, many Americans stay up late to watch the Super Bowl, a national holiday of sorts. With great plays, entertaining halftime shows and great ads, the game uniquely unites Americans. Then Monday arrives, and fun turns to tiredness when workers and students struggle to finish the day on just four or five hours of rest. The reality is that America needs a day of rest after the Super Bowl.
The Super Bowl is more than a sports game; it is a national celebration. People hold parties, restaurants and pubs get packed and millions of Americans watch the game. Because it begins in the evening hours and celebrations continue late at night, it is very difficult to get up early to work or attend school the next day. Productivity at work is decreased after the game, with employees reporting in sick or reporting to work tired and disoriented. The same is true in school with children sluggish and unmotivated. A national day of rest would indicate just how crucial this game is in our society and would allow everyone to rest up and return refreshed.
This year, companies are providing fans a day of rest after the Super Bowl. Starbucks is providing a free cup of coffee to get worn-out fans going in the morning, and other companies are providing discounts and giveaways. Some companies even provide their workers a chance to come to work late or take it easy at home to skip work. So why not take it to the next level? If companies know that more rest is in order after the big game, should everyone in the country take their cue?
Not just workers and college students would get a day of rest, though, but it would also kick in a boost to the entire economy. People would get more time to shop at local retailers, continue to enjoy, and take in post-game promotions and sales. Everyone would have their mood boosted, more productivity in the long term, and a well-deserved rest after one of the most exciting events in American sports.
The Super Bowl brings the country together, and it’s time our calendar did the same. Let’s make the day after the big game a national day of rest. After all, even champions need a day of rest.
