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Annual leave is one of the things we all look forward to, kicking back and enjoying some much needed you-time after working your day job for that bit too long.
The one obstacle we have is the challenge of getting the request approved before getting all the logistics of travelling in order.
But once you're past that stage, there's no turning back, right?
Not necessarily for this Australian man.
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His exchange with his boss just a week before his leave was set to begin has gone viral on TikTok.
The messages were shared by Michael Sanz (@theoutsourcingexpert) on the social media platform, a business owner and outsourcing expert known for sharing people's bad experiences with bosses.
Michael read out the messages sent by the worker, Noel, and his boss, Nick - who actually sent him the exchange 'like a badge of honour' as he thought he was in the right.
Michael prefaced the video by saying: "You’re not going to believe this message I just got sent."
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The boss sent the first message, letting Noel know that another staff member has resigned, and so his leave that was booked for next week has been cancelled so he can help deal with the shortage of staff.
“We can push back a few months. I’ve advised HR it’s now changed for you. Appreciate your understanding,” Nick wrote.
The TikToker then called the boss a 'tool', which I think is what we were all thinking.
Noel replied, outlining that he understands that it might be inconvenient for the company, but his holiday is booked as his family are going to Bali for his brother's wedding.
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"All flights are paid for and my kids are in the wedding party," Noel wrote.
"I did book this in seven months ago, so canceling isn’t an option. I can help out more until I leave if that helps, but I can’t change my leave dates."
The boss then hit back, asking the employee to reduce his leave period from three weeks to three days, even cheekily saying: “Not sure what you can do for three weeks in Bali haha.”
Anyone else's blood boiling?
Noel emphasised that he couldn't cancel or amend his trip, saying he hasn't had annual leave in three years, and that it's none of Nick's business how he spends his time off.
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Go on, Noel!
He also suggested the company could hire temp workers, and said he would help carry the extra workload until his leave.
The TikToker called Nick's response 'appalling', with the boss standing firm and saying: “Mate, can’t stress enough, your leave is cancelled, we just can’t do it. I’m sorry.”
Noel then replied: "Hi Nick, I actually don't want to come back to work now. I'm quite shocked at this email. I'm going to take my leave earlier and start from today.
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"While away I will think about if working with a company that doesn't promote boundaries is a place I really want to work at.
"I'm also sending this as an email to Aaron and HR as it's totally unreasonable."
The TikToker praised the way Noel handled the situation, as no worker should have to justify their leave.
Users felt the same in the comments, with one questioning: "Anyone else wondering why Jenny left?"
Another commented: "Business Owner here. Unacceptable by the boss. Not the employees problem. Enjoy Bali!"
A third put: "This IS The reason they have trouble with staffing, pure and simple!"
Noel did, in fact, ended up going on his trip and turned his phone off for the whole duration of it. He has since gone on to find a new job with an even higher salary.
Safe to say, we're all team Noel here.
Topics: Australia, Social Media, TikTok, Travel
Joshua Nair