A workplace conflict recently came to light when an employee, struggling with poor health, informed his boss about needing a day off. What followed was not simple approval but a response that left many questioning the manager’s empathy. The exchange, later shared on the subreddit Indian Workplace, quickly caught the attention of readers who weighed in with strong opinions.
The Employee’s Appeal
On a weekday morning, the employee reached out to his superior to explain that he was unwell. He described experiencing body pain and exhaustion while adding that if his condition improved later, he would attempt to resume his duties. This was not a complete withdrawal but a cautious request for time to recover.
The Boss’s Reaction
Instead of a straightforward approval, the boss replied with a mixed message. On one hand, he advised the employee to prioritize recovery and return to work only when fully fit. On the other, he reminded him about recent absences, emphasizing that such breaks should not disrupt official responsibilities. He also underlined the fact that the team was already burdened with intense workloads, and every absence placed additional strain on the unit’s performance.
Clarifications from the Employee
The worker was quick to defend himself. He pointed out that he had not taken leave the previous Saturday. In fact, because the manager had been unavailable that day, he had assumed extra duties, including preparing detailed one-page reports, and had even stretched his work hours until 7 p.m. To address the accusation of “frequent” absences, he explained that his only extended time off had been when his father underwent a major brain tumor surgery—an unavoidable personal emergency.
Reddit Users Respond
Once the conversation was posted online, reactions poured in. Many criticized the manager’s lack of empathy. One user, who has been leading a team for two years, shared that in similar situations, they personally supported their colleagues. This individual even recounted visiting a teammate’s hospitalized father with their own doctor parents, stressing that managers should stand by their team in difficult times.
Another comment took a more analytical approach, suggesting that the boss’s attitude reflected low emotional intelligence. The commenter speculated that financial pressures, such as loans or the desire for rapid promotion, might drive managers to adopt a hardline stance. Such insecurities, they argued, could explain why some supervisors push employees regardless of personal circumstances.
Advice for the Employee
Not all responses were entirely critical of the boss. A few users pointed out that while the manager’s bluntness seemed harsh, it was at least transparent. They argued that it is better to deal with a supervisor who openly reveals their expectations, even if strict, than one who pretends to be kind only to undermine staff later during promotions or salary hikes. One Redditor advised the employee to consider leaving the company, warning that staying under such management could prove harmful in the long run.