Thursday, January 1st, 2026, marks the start of a nationwide holiday to celebrate the New Year. People rejoice in this festive occasion. However, because the New Year holiday falls mid-week, the joy of starting a new chapter may be slightly diminished. This means employees will need to return to the office for a day before enjoying the weekend. Auspicious Beginning The meaning of New Year's Day may differ from the bustling Lunar New Year in mid-February, but it still carries an atmosphere of tranquility and renewal. It's a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the new year with anticipation and optimism. This hopeful and positive mindset is especially important when facing the complex challenges of modern life. The One-Day Holiday Dilemma However, the fact that the holiday falls mid-week creates an awkward situation. A mere 24 hours of rest may not be enough for employees who wish to… travel to relax, or spend quality time with family and friends. The change in the normal work week can feel like missed opportunities and a rush. Advocating for Extended Holidays In response to this situation, a recent proposal has suggested allowing students in Ho Chi Minh City to enjoy a four-day holiday during the New Year period. Extending this initiative to the working population seems reasonable and beneficial. Companies can allow employees to take Friday off and make up for it with a compensatory Saturday (December 27th). This adjustment will not reduce the total number of workdays and is unlikely to have a significant impact on business operations. Potential benefits of extending the holiday include: allowing millions of workers to enjoy a more meaningful holiday; stimulating consumption; and boosting the service and tourism industries. Social Impact The social impact of this arrangement could be far-reaching. Extending the holiday will enhance the festive atmosphere and have a positive impact on employee well-being. The growth potential of consumption and tourism will also help stimulate economic growth. Questions & Answers What is the significance of New Year's Day? New Year's Day marks the beginning of a new year, symbolizing a fresh start. People reflect on the past year and look forward to the new year with hope and positivity. What are the problems with New Year's Day falling on a workday? If the holiday falls in the middle of the week, it may disrupt normal work schedules, leaving employees with insufficient time to rest or spend quality time with their families. What are the social benefits of extending the New Year's holiday? Extended holidays can provide workers with more meaningful rest, stimulate consumption, and boost the service and tourism industries. This shared festive atmosphere has the potential to improve social well-being and stimulate economic growth. To celebrate the New Year, our company is offering a 30% discount package. Purchases exceeding a certain amount are eligible to apply. Please contact Mr. Alex for detail...