^on a dad to day basis, I use vtec maybe once a day. It all really depends on how fast you need to accelerate.
I don't think hitting vtec is really an "item" or goal, or anything. Its just the engine working more efficiently. So, if need get going fast, I'm going to ride the higher rpms for the first couple of gears because thats where the power is at.
In general, if I hit vtec, I first hit in 1st gear, then quick shift to second, maybe keeping it in vtec. But usually by the end of second I'm plenty up to speed.
On the highway, if I'm cruising and need to pass, I will drop to 4th or 3rd, that will usually put me in vtec rpm range and I can pass pretty quickly.