It’s All Fun And Games Until Someone Gets Sick

By Brian Maynor

 

While we focus a lot on the festive side of the season, attending all of those parties, stressing out over work and family balance and traveling has a downside, namely compromising your immune system making you more susceptible to getting sick.

While you may be able to function with a cold, you’re not going to be at the top of your game, and even if you like to be the office martyr, exposing your germs to the entire office isn’t the best way to go about it.

Everyone gets sick and it’s ok to use the sick days you’re allotted, if you use them the right way. Here are some do’s and don’ts for how to take a sick day:

1.    Pay attention to your symptoms. It’s not always easy to tell if you’re contagious, though when you’re running a fever that’s a pretty good sign, but even if you’re not you can still be infecting your coworkers. Aches, coughing and general desire to sleep can all be signs that you’re contagious and if you exhibit those symptoms it’s best to stay home and/or go to the doctor.

2.    Unplug from stress. Chances are you will want to sleep a lot while you’re recovering and that’s fine because along with plenty of liquids, rest is the best thing you can do. That means don’t check your email, don’t make phone calls or attend conference calls. You need to unplug from stress, which will only drain your energy and make your recovery time longer. Aside from work you should also not use this time to clean the house or run errands you’ve been putting off.

3.    Be active in moderation. While running or going to the gym aren’t recommended, a leisurely stroll outside can actually be beneficial in boosting your lymphatic system and help you feel better. Just be sure to take it easy and don’t overdo it. This is about getting fresh air and moving more than it is breaking a sweat.

4.    Watch a comedy. Catching up on your DVR or binge-watching Netflix can have medicinal repercussions. According to research laughing is a great way to improve your mood and make symptoms feel more manageable. So indulge in your favorite sitcom or comedy. Laughter is medicine after all.

5.   Clean and sanitize. We all know that we should wash our hands frequently and avoid touching our face to diminish the spread of germs, but we also need to clean our phones, keyboards, computer mice, remote controls and anything else we touch to kill the germs. Along with hand-sanitizer it’s a good idea to take a pack of antibacterial wipes to the office to wipe down everything on your desk and door handles.

When you’re sick being the hero doesn’t mean dragging yourself into the office with a box of tissues in tow. No one wants to see that, or you quite frankly. Being a hero means staying home and taking care of yourself so you can get well quickly.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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