The situation shared by TikTok user @thecourrent about her company’s announcement that there will be no holidays in 2025 is shocking and frustrating. It highlights a troubling trend where companies place little value on work-life balance, even during key holidays and celebrations. While relaxation is critical for workers’ mental health, it’s clear that many employers are increasingly pushing the idea of hustle culture, where taking time off can feel like a luxury rather than a necessity.
In many other countries, employees are legally entitled to paid time off. For example, in Sweden, there’s a law (Semesterlagen) requiring companies to provide a minimum of 25 days of paid vacation each year. This is significantly more than the average in the U.S., where many companies offer just 16 paid days off per year, or sometimes none at all.
According to a 2024 Harris Poll survey, a large number of Americans don’t even use all their available paid time off, often due to work culture that discourages taking a break. This trend is especially troubling when we consider that many people need time to rest, recharge, and reconnect with loved ones, particularly during major holidays or life events.
The comments from people outside the U.S. calling attention to the stark contrast between their country’s labor laws and the U.S. system only highlight how unusual and unfair this situation is. Many companies fail to recognize that employee well-being is integral to productivity and morale, as shown by data from Mindspace’s Employee Well-being Data Report, where 82% of respondents expressed a desire for better time-off policies and flexible work hours.
For those facing similar situations, it might be worth considering job opportunities elsewhere that prioritize employee wellness. After all, no amount of hustle can replace the need for rest and the enjoyment of life outside of work.