Do you drag yourself out of bed despite a bad cold? Think twice—research shows it won't boost your work productivity.
Even with an emerging flu or pounding headache, many push through to the office, motivated but not always wisely. A Concordia University study led by researcher Gary Johns reveals that working while sick fails to enhance productivity.
Physically Present, Mentally Absent
Sick employees are often there in body but absent in mind. Johns surveyed 444 individuals, who reported an average of three mentally absent days and 1.8 physically absent days over the past six months. Illness caused most absences. Key finding: Those who took sick days had more physical absences but significantly fewer mental ones compared to those who powered through illness.
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Uncertain About Your Job? Workers in caring or teaching professions often feel socially obligated to show up. Others face organizational pressure, particularly those insecure about their roles. In contrast, employees confident in their positions comfortably take sick days when needed.
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