I was also bedridden and incapacitated this week. 🔥🔥🔥

I do have one reflection though! This was my first 9-5 and first official work experience. Growing up, I consumed a lot of North American, specifically American, media (both social and traditional). I was exposed to the horrible work-life balance Americans have and how they don’t get sick days or are afraid not to come into work because “productivity” is all that matters. My high school also embodied somewhat of a hustle culture. So I was surprised when my coworkers were incredibly understanding of my sickness and kept checking up on my health. I did not feel like my sickness was a burden or obstacle to the organization because I couldn’t complete my tasks on time – I was assured I could take my time to fully recover. This was eye-opening and life-changing – different countries have such different work environments and this week made me realize that is a factor I should prioritize when deciding where I want to work. 

This is a very simple realization. Not everyone wants their work to become their life and it was nice to be reminded of optionality in this decision.