I lost my voice the other day. But I felt well enough otherwise, so I decided to go to work and finish some reports before the deadline. I didn’t want to take a sick day just for a minor inconvenience, like a sore throat.
When I was in the elevator up to my office, I met a colleague. She heard my squeaky voice and asked if I was feeling well. I replied, “I don’t sound well, but I feel well. There are closing reports I need to rush.” Then I made a remark about how “kids nowadays” would take MC at the slightest hint of discomfort.
My colleague chuckled and said, “Well, even when they’re not-not feeling well, they also take MC.” We both laughed as the elevator doors opened and we went our separate ways to our respective desks.
This little exchange made me reflect on the culture of work and sick leave. It seems that in some workplaces, taking time off for any reason is stigmatised, as if it’s a sign of weakness or lack of commitment. On the other hand, in some places, people are encouraged to take sick days even for minor issues, as a way to prioritise their health and prevent the spread of illness.
Personally, I believe that we should strike a balance between these two extremes. Of course, if you’re seriously ill or contagious, you should stay home and take care of yourself. But if you’re just experiencing a minor discomfort or inconvenience, it shouldn’t be taboo to come to work and do your job, as long as you’re not putting others at risk, if it makes sense.
Sometimes we have to make compromises and work around our limitations. However it is, to have resilience, determination, and a good sense of humour is all so important If we want to push it through.
#WeekendRamblings #SheerWill #BebelBimbo
Disclaimer: I’m not encouraging people to tough it out and come to work when they’re sick. If you have a high fever, a hacking cough, and are emitting noxious fumes, please stay home and take care of yourself. I don’t want to be responsible for a widespread outbreak of sore throats and squeaky voices in the workplace. Thanks!
