- Fri, Feb 3, 2012 1:20 PM EST
Photo by: David KostnerGERMANY: According to statistics compiled by the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development), Germans work just 27.8 hours per week, one of the lowest ... more
Finding the perfect balance between work, family and leisure is one of the keys to happiness in life, but not all nations are created equal when it comes to fostering that balance. Many Americans may be surprised to learn that the U.S. lags far behind most other Western nations in regard to the kinds of free time it affords its workers. For instance, while the vast majority of European nations mandate paid vacation or holiday time for their workers, the U.S. has no such mandate. The truth is just as grim when it comes to paid maternity leave. The United States, along with Papua New Guinea and Swaziland, are the only countries in the world that do not require some form of maternity leave.
Compared to much of the Western world, American workers are among the most overworked in the world. Can we learn something from how other nations treat their working class?
Based on statistics such as vacation time, parental leave, and work/life balance, here's our list of the 10 best countries in the world to work in.
Related Stories:
10 companies that let you bring your dog to work
7 companies with unique employee health benefits
Why socializing with work friends is good for business
3 comments