Not Happy? Don't Come To Work: Boss Wins The Internet With 'Unhappy Leaves' Policy
In China, Pang Dong Lai, owner of a retail company in Henan province, offers 10 'Unhappy Leaves' for mental health, a widely praised policy

To enhance workplace morale, many employers are introducing innovative policies like flexible work hours, wellness programs, and mental health days, to keep their employees happy and motivated. By prioritising a positive work culture, these employers aim to reduce stress, enhance job satisfaction, and cultivate a more supportive workplace as companies acknowledge that employee well-being directly impacts productivity and overall success.
One such notable example is the trend of ‘Unhappy Leaves’ where if any employee feels unhappy, their boss will immediately grant them leave. This incident is from China, where Pang Dong Lai, the owner of a company, has informed his employees that if they feel mentally unwell, they need not come to the office.
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The Unhappy Leave
During China Supermarket Week, Pang Dong Lai, owner of a retail company in Henan province, made an unusual announcement. He is providing 10 special holidays for days when employees are feeling unhappy. He stated, “There will be times in everyone’s life when they are not happy. If you are not happy, don’t come to work."
These leaves are intended for relaxation and improving one’s mood. Management cannot deny these leaves as it would be against company policy.
Positive Reception
As the corporate world continues to evolve, these unique approaches show that investing in happiness can pay off, both for employees and businesses alike.
The concept of unhappy leave has been widely praised and has gained popularity on social media, with many lauding the boss. The company also offers good salaries, 7-hour shifts, and weekends off to create a supportive environment for employees. Workers receive 30-40 days of annual leave, which now includes the 10 unhappy leaves.
Learning about this new trend, some social media users humorously remarked, “What if you are not happy for the entire year?"
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