What It Looks Like to NOT Work When You Are Sick...

As this winter continues more and more people are falling ill with a plethora of challenges from COVID-19 and RSV to the 24 hour flu.  In the world of overwhelm, when illness strikes, it presents a crucial opportunity to prioritize well-being over productivity.  Understanding the importance of rest and recovery cannot be overstated.  Let's explore two contrasting approaches to dealing with illness, each revealing valuable lessons in self-care and resilience.

The Struggle of Pushing Through: A Tale of Burnout

Consider Sarah, a driven professional who prides herself on her relentless work ethic. When faced with COVID-19, Sarah's initial instinct is to soldier on, determined not to let illness disrupt her momentum. She meticulously schedules medication around her workload, believing that staying productive is paramount to success. Fearful of falling behind and concerned about how others might perceive her illness, Sarah pushes through the fatigue and discomfort, convinced that her dedication will see her through.  After all, she is so far behind she really doesn’t have time to be sick!

However, Sarah's approach comes with significant risks. Despite her best efforts, the quality of Sarah's work begins to suffer as the symptoms of her illness take their toll. Tasks that would normally be completed with ease become more challenging, and Sarah finds herself making mistakes that she wouldn't typically make. Despite her best intentions, Sarah's insistence on working while ill compromises not only her health but also the standard of work she prides herself on.

Moreover, her insistence on working while sick perpetuates a harmful narrative of presenteeism, where productivity is prioritized over well-being. Sarah's actions not only compromise her own health but also contribute to a toxic work culture that values output over human needs.

The Power of Prioritizing Health: From Sick to Thriving

In contrast, let's consider Emily, another professional facing the challenges of COVID-19. Upon falling ill, Emily makes a conscious decision to prioritize her health above all else. Recognizing the importance of rest and recovery, she communicates openly with her colleagues about her illness and delegates tasks accordingly. Rather than pushing through symptoms, Emily embraces the opportunity to focus on self-care, knowing that true resilience lies in honoring one's physical and mental well-being.

Emily's approach yields profound results. By listening to her body and taking the necessary time off to heal, she accelerates her recovery and minimizes the risk of burnout. Furthermore, her transparency and vulnerability foster a culture of empathy and support within her workplace, empowering others to prioritize their health without fear of judgment or stigma. Emily's actions not only benefit her own well-being but also inspire those around her to adopt a healthier, more sustainable approach to work and life.

In the journey toward stopping overwhelm, navigating illness with grace and wisdom is essential. While the temptation to push through may be strong, it is crucial to recognize that true strength lies in prioritizing health and well-being above all else. Whichever shoes you find yourself in, remember that self-care is not selfish – it is a necessary foundation for long-term success and fulfillment.  Comment below who’s shoes fit your feet?!

AND the next time you're faced with illness, dare to step back, prioritize your health, and watch as resilience and vitality flourish.  As you face what this winter has to offer, if you find yourself in Sarah’s shoes, and you have a new perspective from bed versus your desk - feel free to reach out to me… I’d love to help!