A Gurgaon-based entrepreneur, Jasveer Singh, co-founder and CEO of Knot Dating, recently shared what he called the “most honest leave application” he had ever received. The employee emailed Singh admitting they were struggling to focus at work following a breakup and requested leave from the 28th to the 8th. Singh shared a screenshot of the email on X, highlighting the candid nature of Gen Z professionals.

Got the most honest leave application yesterday. Gen Z doesn’t do filters! pic.twitter.com/H0J27L5EsE

— Jasveer Singh (@jasveer10) October 28, 2025

The post also included a screenshot of the leave application that read: “I recently had a breakup and haven’t been able to focus on work, I need a short break. I’m working from home today, so I’d like to take leave from the 28th to the 8th.”

Empathy and Transparency Win Praise

Singh’s post quickly gained attention online. Users appreciated both the employee’s honesty and Singh’s supportive response. Many commented that such transparency reflects a shift in workplace culture where emotional well-being and mental health are openly acknowledged. When asked whether the leave was approved, Singh responded, “Leave approved, instantly,” earning him widespread praise for his empathetic stance.

Professionalism and Workplace Culture

The incident highlights how Gen Z is reshaping workplace norms. Unlike earlier generations, younger professionals feel comfortable discussing personal struggles openly rather than hiding them behind vague excuses. Social media reactions praised the move toward prioritizing mental health and emotional clarity, suggesting that honesty and self-care are becoming integral to modern professional life.

Humor and Perspective in the Comments

The thread also saw lighter exchanges. One user joked, “This is perfectly okay. Better yet, don’t explain what it’s for at all.” Another joked, “There are people who don’t even take that many leaves for their marriage,” to which Jasveer Singh replied, “But I think breakups require more leave than marriage.”

“If only more bosses had this understanding, mental health leaves would be normalized,” said another. Others suggested that employees shouldn’t need to justify personal time off, emphasizing that privacy and well-being are valid reasons on their own.

A Viral Example of Change

This story went viral as a relatable and heartwarming example of evolving workplace dynamics. It showcased the growing acceptance of mental health needs and emotional honesty at work, with both employees and employers navigating a balance of empathy, productivity, and personal care.

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