Sick Days

Some of us are fortunate enough to have sick days. Depending on your employer, your sick days may even be mandated by the government. I am very grateful to my employer for providing sick days, and for letting me take several days off when I lost my voice last week. (In case you're wondering, I'm not contagious and have since returned to work, although my voice hasn't quite made it back yet!)

Sick days have several purposes:

• First, they help us to recover. When we're sick, it's important to rest. Too often, high levels of stress can increase our susceptibility to illness in the first place.
• Second, they give us financial peace of mind. When we're ill or caring for others who are unwell, it's nice to know that we can still afford rent, food, etc.
• Third, they protect those around us. Being able to stay home means that you are less likely to infect your co-workers, clients, students, etc.
• Finally, they ensure the quality of our work. Despite our best efforts and determination, how many of us can truthfully say that we give it 100% when we're not feeling our best?

Okay, so the benefits of taking a sick day may be obvious.

But how many of us allow ourselves to use our sick days when we're sick?

Maybe we feel guilty...

• "I'm not sick enough"
• "My co-workers only miss a day at most when they're sick"
• "I have a deadline to meet"
• "Someone will have to cover for me"
• "My client will miss their session for the week"

Maybe we feel anxious...

• "How sick am I?"
• "How long will I be sick?"
• "What if I use up all my sick days?"
• "Will my employer believe me?"
• "Will my coworkers resent me?"
• "Who will cover my responsibilities?"
• "Will I still be able to afford ________?"

The majority of people enjoy some measure of good health on a daily basis. If you feel sick at all, you are sick enough. You deserve to use your sick days.

For next time, how can you plan ahead? Can you meet your deadlines further in advance instead of procrastinating until the last minute? Can you train others in your responsibilities so that you can delegate tasks to them when necessary? If you are self-employed, can you factor sick time into your rates to give yourself a cushion?

Remember...
Be compassionate, to yourself and to others. Some people do not have the luxury of sick days. Perhaps they are living paycheck to paycheck. Perhaps they have used all their sick days taking care of their children, or parents. Perhaps your young student's family members aren't able to stay home with them. Treating each other with kindness won't hurt; it can only make us feel better.