Leave, and paid leave, in particular, is one of those glorious things that keep morale up when the year feels like it’s dragging on.

As we edge closer and closer to the end of the year, most of us have some time off coming our way.

Remember that as we soldier on through the week. The end is near.

What you might not know is that not all leave is created equal. We tend to think that with all the public holidays, plus our guaranteed 15 days of leave a year (or thereabouts), South Africans are doing better than most other countries on this front.

Sure, compared to some countries, like America, we are. They have no minimum paid vacation days, and it’s up to employers how they allocate vacation time.

As Traveller24 explains, however, we could do better.

A study by IPSOS showed that last year, 57% of South Africans disagreed with the statement that they will spend at least one week away from home on holiday. While 35% admitted to checking work emails and messages while on holiday.

And only 50% of respondents agreed that they use up all their annual leave days.

The pressure to perform at work often results in people not using their annual leave days. Company culture can also contribute to an environment where taking leave is frowned upon.

Leave is important because it helps to prevent burnout and facilitates relationships outside of the office.

With that in mind, let’s check out how we compare to the rest of the world:

I’m moving to Kuwait.

If you plan on staying here, check your leave days and start planning that holiday.

Somewhere with no cellphone reception or internet access is always a good idea.

[source:traveller24]