How to deal with personal emergencies while at work

Dubai - You'll never know when it'll happen so best be prepared

By Keith Pereña

Published: Sat 11 Feb 2017, 4:31 PM

Last updated: Sat 11 Feb 2017, 9:46 PM

Our daily lives as UAE residents are marked by our preoccupation with our work and being engrossed in our professional lives. There is an oft-quoted expression: "You can't be sick when you work in the UAE". Exaggerations aside, the quote has a tinge of truth in it. So what can you do when you feel unwell, or if suddenly an emergency pops up and you're in the office? Here are some ways to convince your employer that you need some time out.

Tell your boss

The easiest way to not let personal problems ruin your day at work is to tell your boss. Some reminders though: You need not let out the whole story to your boss and sound dramatic, keep it simple and concise so that he or she can acknowledge that you're having a rough patch today.

Go on a short break

Or if you haven't, have your lunch already. Taking a break from work allows you to recompose your thoughts and make important calls if need be.

Avoid telling everybody in the office

Despite your urge to vent out and just talk about your problem to whoever's near, it's ill-advised to tell every single one of your colleagues about your emergency. Only tell those whom you can trust so that they can give you proper support.

Keep emotions in check

As hard as it may sound, you have to remember that the office is a professional environment and the same degree of behavior is expected. Avoid tears, and if you couldn't, go to the washroom; don't shout at anyone by mistake; and don't sacrifice productivity. While you can ease up a little, make sure that you finish your tasks at the pace you are comfortable with for the time being.

Ask for a day off (if need be)

If you really must, you can try and ask your boss for a day off. If your emergency means the fine line between having a breakdown at work and being all right, err on the side of safety and take a leave for the day. You can always come back the next day when you've sorted out your problems and taken some time off to refresh your brain.