While “unhappy leave” may initially seem unconventional, its underlying logic is compelling. A rising tide of research indicates that workplace stress and burnout are becoming increasingly prevalent across the globe
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Some stories just won’t stay in the archives, and for good reason. Recently, a post about Chinese retail tycoon Yu Donglai’s groundbreaking workplace policy called “unhappy leave” has resurfaced on social media, sparking fresh conversations about work-life balance.
Originally reported by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), this policy allows employees to take up to 10 extra days off when they’re feeling emotionally drained or unhappy.
In an era where stress is often normalised (and even glorified), Donglai’s approach feels like a breath of fresh air and a step in the right direction.
As April is globally recognised as Stress Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to unpack why this policy, and others like it, are celebrated and how they pave the way for healthier work environments.
What is “unhappy leave”?
Donglai, the founder and chairman of Pang Dong Lai, introduced the concept of “unhappy leave” to acknowledge an often-overlooked reality: Happiness and mental well-being directly impact productivity.
According to him, “Everyone has times when they’re not happy, so if you’re not happy, do not come to work.”
Employees can request up to 10 additional days off each year if they’re feeling emotionally unwell. What’s more, this leave cannot be denied by management; denial is considered a violation of company policy. But that’s not all. Yu’s company also supports employees through:
Donglai’s philosophy is simple: “We do not want to be big. We want our employees to have a healthy and relaxed life so that the company will too.”
A growing number of companies have begun offering dedicated mental health days distinct from traditional sick leave, emphasising the importance of addressing stress and anxiety without stigma.
Image: Ketut Subiyanto /pexels
Why this policy is worth celebrating
At first glance, “unhappy leave” might sound unconventional. But when you think about it, it makes perfect sense.
A growing body of research shows that workplace stress and burnout are on the rise globally. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), burnout is now recognised as an occupational phenomenon that can lead to serious physical and mental health consequences.
Policies like Donglai’s signal a shift toward prioritising employee well-being over relentless productivity.
By allowing team members to take a step back when they’re struggling, companies foster a culture of trust, reduce burnout, and ironically boost long-term productivity. Work policies that break the mold Yu Donglai isn’t the only leader challenging the status quo.
Around the world, companies are rethinking traditional work structures to prioritise employee well-being.
Here are a few other progressive policies that, while controversial at first, have proven to benefit both employees and businesses:
1. Four-day workweeks
The four-day workweek has been trialled in countries like Iceland, New Zealand, and the UK, with remarkable success.
Studies have shown that employees working four days a week are just as productive if not more so than those working five days. Plus, they report higher levels of job satisfaction and lower stress.
2. Unlimited PTO
Companies like Netflix and HubSpot have embraced unlimited paid time off, trusting employees to manage their workloads while taking the time they need to recharge. While some critics argue that it could lead to abuse, many employees report feeling more motivated and loyal to their employers.
3. Mental health days
Several companies are now offering dedicated mental health days, separate from traditional sick leave. This acknowledges the importance of addressing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges without stigma.
4. Nap pods and wellness rooms
Tech giants like Google and Facebook have introduced nap pods and wellness rooms to encourage employees to rest and recharge during the workday. While some see this as a luxury, advocates argue that short breaks can significantly boost creativity and productivity.
In a world that often glorifies hustle culture, it’s easy to fall into the trap of equating busyness with success. Work-life balance isn’t just a nice-to-have it’s essential.
Chronic stress can lead to health problems like heart disease, anxiety, and depression. Donglai’s “unhappy leave” policy is more than just a trending topic it’s a call to action.
As stress awareness takes centre stage this April, it’s worth reflecting on how we can all advocate for healthier work environments, whether that’s by championing progressive policies, normalising discussions about mental health, or simply taking the time to rest when we need it.