Paradoxically, skipping sick days can lead you to lose out on productive work days.
But with many peopleworking from home, calling in a true sick day might feel unnecessary.
After all, it doesn’t take that much effort to grab your laptop andwork from bed, right?
Getty Images
That’s actually flawed thinking, experts say.
“We truly need to normalize recovery and self-care, especially when we’re sick.”
Not taking sick days is not a trend spurred only by the pandemic, however.
Here are three biggest downsides to skipping out on a full sick day off.
You’re less productive when you’re sick.
Simply having your inbox open all day hardly counts as work.
Paradoxically, skipping sick days can cause you to lose out on productive work days.
You could prolong your illness.
We all know thatstress isn’t healthy.
When you’re sick, things likestaying well hydratedand eatinghealthy foods high in antioxidantsshould be your main focus.
You’re losing out on a teachable moment.
The latter situation will need to be managed differently.
Forcing your sick self to power through with diminishing returns just reinforces unhealthy expectations going forward.
What justifies a sick day?
There’s no level of sickness that applies to everyone here; it really comes down to the individual.
You probably know your parameters and should trust your gut.
Giving adequate notice allows your manager and impacted colleagues to plan around your absence.
What does an ideal sick day look like?
If you call in sick, avoid workingseriously.
“So take time to rest and recharge.”
Trust us: Your inbox will be there waiting for you when you’re healthy again.
