Hyderabad techie's ‘smart sick day hack’ backfires, triggers online debate on work culture

What was meant to be a humble showboating about efficiency turned into a lesson in workplace wellness. A Hyderabad-based techie recently took to LinkedIn to share his so-called “smart sick day hack” — logging off early at the first sign of illness to avoid using a full day of leave. But instead of applause, his post drew heavy criticism for glorifying a work-first mentality and downplaying the importance of staying home when unwell. The internet was quick to remind him: productivity shouldn’t come at the cost of public health.

The Viral Post That Sparked It All

“Saved 5 hours just by acting smart,” the techie wrote, adding, “The day I felt something off like a fever was on the way, I didn’t wait for it to hit hard. I wrapped up an hour early and went home. That night? Full-blown fever.”

Claiming that the early break gave him a head start on recovery, he added, “Next morning, I was back at work just 2 hours later instead of wasting an entire sick day.” He signed off with a philosophical note: “Time is precious. Your health is too.”

Internet Says: ‘Stay Home!’

The post was soon reshared on Reddit, where users were anything but impressed. 

“Dude is still contagious and should have stayed home. Agree?” one comment read. 

Another user admitted to doing the same, but emphasized they work remotely, posing no health risk to co-workers.

Others were more critical: “Fever generally means ‘infectious’. Stay home,” one said. Another warned, “You’re still shedding the virus after the fever breaks! FFS, this is how pandemics happen!”

The Bottom Line?

While the intention might have been to showcase discipline, the takeaway for many was clear: in a post-pandemic world, coming to work sick, even a little, isn’t smart, it’s selfish.