Some years ago, my answer to the above question would have been a big NO! I could spread the germs to colleagues and patients alike; I would not be able to perform my duties optimally, I would feel sicker afterwards and 'What are sick leaves for?'. Now, I don't think such thoughts. Some of them don't sound like reasons but justifications to miss work when a tad unwell.
I know that in the Army, sick leave is not given to soldiers unless they are sick enough to get admitted. I know of some patients and colleagues who say "If I stay at home, I will feel sicker, so might as well go to work...". I have joined this club now. The cause of this shift in attitude? The wisdom that every day matters, the realization that it is easy to preach but not as easy to practise. The knowledge that "What does not kill me, makes me stronger". Also that as Boss of my small unit, I need to lead from the front. Like kids, my staff do not listen to what I may say, but they sure see what I do.
The consequences? I am no longer soft on myself. My stamina, mental and physical, has undoubtedly been strengthened. Naturally, the other activities like walking every day, working out every other day, reading-take a pause as all my energy goes into showing up at work and getting the job done. Till I recover from the illness that may last a few days to a full week.
After all, nothing of value grows in my comfort zone.
I know that in the Army, sick leave is not given to soldiers unless they are sick enough to get admitted. I know of some patients and colleagues who say "If I stay at home, I will feel sicker, so might as well go to work...". I have joined this club now. The cause of this shift in attitude? The wisdom that every day matters, the realization that it is easy to preach but not as easy to practise. The knowledge that "What does not kill me, makes me stronger". Also that as Boss of my small unit, I need to lead from the front. Like kids, my staff do not listen to what I may say, but they sure see what I do.
The consequences? I am no longer soft on myself. My stamina, mental and physical, has undoubtedly been strengthened. Naturally, the other activities like walking every day, working out every other day, reading-take a pause as all my energy goes into showing up at work and getting the job done. Till I recover from the illness that may last a few days to a full week.
After all, nothing of value grows in my comfort zone.
