This makes leisure time a valued commodity. American culture prizes its leisure above almost everything. It is not uncommon for workers to negotiate more time off even if they give up some salary to get it. Time has become more valuable than money. Literally billions are spent on leisure activities each year.
Leisure is a fact of life in America.
It is important to people in all walks of life and all indications point to it growing in the coming years. Competition at the Root of American Culture Competition on the job has led us to become more conscious of productivity. If I am competitive in my job and produce more services or goods, then I often rewarded with more time to use as I see fit. Being competitive has its rewards. This competition often creeps into the leisure activities we participate in.