In today's fast-paced work environment, the line between being unwell and working anyway has become increasingly blurred. Many of us have experienced that "ill-ish" feeling—not sick enough to call in completely, but not well enough to perform at our best. With remote work becoming the norm and technology keeping us constantly connected, the expectations around working while unwell have changed significantly. So, what are the new rules of working when sick, and how should we navigate them?
Understanding ‘Ill-ish’: When You’re Not Quite Well Enough
The term "ill-ish" has emerged to describe those days when you're feeling under the weather but not necessarily bedridden. Whether it’s a mild cold, fatigue, or the lingering effects of a recent illness, many employees feel compelled to power through and keep working. However, this trend raises important questions about productivity, health, and workplace expectations.
The Impact on Productivity and Well-Being
Working while sick, even mildly, can have a significant impact on both your performance and overall well-being. Studies show that working when unwell often leads to lower productivity, increased mistakes, and prolonged recovery times. The body needs rest to heal, and pushing through illness can delay your return to full health, ultimately affecting your work in the long term.
Additionally, when employees work while feeling unwell, it can set unrealistic expectations for colleagues and create a culture where taking time to recover is frowned upon. This “always-on” mentality can be detrimental not only to individuals but also to team dynamics and overall company culture.
Remote Work: A Double-Edged Sword
The rise of remote work has complicated the rules around working when sick. On the one hand, working from home can offer flexibility, allowing employees to manage their workload at their own pace. On the other hand, it has blurred the boundaries between work and personal time, making it harder for employees to fully disconnect and take the rest they need when unwell.
Employers need to recognise that just because an employee can work from home doesn’t mean they should when they’re not feeling their best. Encouraging a culture that prioritises health and well-being, even in remote settings, is crucial.
Setting New Boundaries: The Role of Employers and Employees
So, how do we set new boundaries for working when sick? Employers should lead by example, promoting clear guidelines that prioritise health and encourage employees to take time off when needed. This includes reinforcing the idea that rest and recovery are not only acceptable but necessary.
Employees, on the other hand, should feel empowered to listen to their bodies and communicate openly with their managers about their health. Taking a sick day—even when working remotely—should be normalised as an important part of maintaining productivity and well-being in the long run.
Creating a Healthy Work Culture
At Matrix Recruitment, we believe that a healthy work culture starts with valuing employees' well-being. By setting clear expectations, fostering open communication, and encouraging time off when needed, companies can create an environment where employees feel supported in prioritising their health. The “ill-ish” trend may be here to stay, but by redefining the rules, we can ensure that our teams remain healthy, happy, and productive.
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When looking at sick days, take a look at our article 'How Employers Can Identify Fake Sick Days'.
