Examining the Mediating Effects of Optimism and Job Satisfaction After Vacation on the Relationship Between Holiday Recovery Experience and Life Satisfaction

Abstract

This article empirically examines the relationship between holiday recovery experience and life satisfaction, along with the mediating roles of optimism and job satisfaction after vacation. Data were collected from a sample of 361 white-collar workers in Istanbul. Structural equation modelling was employed to test the hypotheses. The findings reveal a positive relationship between holiday recovery experience and life satisfaction. In addition, holiday recovery experience was positively associated with both optimism and job satisfaction after vacation. Optimism and job satisfaction after vacation were found to partially mediate the relationship between holiday recovery experience and life satisfaction. The results offer practical implications for white-collar employees and business organisations. Understanding the importance of the holiday recovery experience and its influence on life satisfaction may help individuals plan more restorative and effective vacations. This study is the first in the literature to explore the mediating effects of optimism and job satisfaction after vacation in the relationship between holiday recovery experience and life satisfaction. It contributes to the growing body of research on the psychological and organisational benefits of recovery experiences for white-collar workers.