How do I use my work leave and benefits strategically?

You know exactly what you are entitled to, and you use it well. That is a real strength, and it puts you ahead of most people who leave earned benefits untouched out of fear or ignorance. You have turned the fine print into a tool that serves your life, and there is nothing to apologize for in that. The only thing to watch is that being strategic stays honest and does not curdle into something you would not want done to you. Using what you earned is fair. There is a line, though, between claiming your due and gaming the system, and staying on the right side of it keeps your conscience clean and your reputation intact. Strength paired with integrity lasts; cleverness without it does not. Consider sharing what you know with a coworker who is too confused or afraid to use their own benefits. You lose nothing, and you help someone claim what is rightfully theirs. The skill you built to protect yourself can quietly protect others too, and that is a fine use of it.