Funny how age can bring wisdom, if you're willing to listen. Been trying a new strategy the past year or two. Historically when I'd start feeling run down or like I was coming down with something, I'd just plow ahead and ignore it. After all...I'm busy and have stuff to do. I can remember being in the lab while sneezing ahd wheezing (turns out that keeping sterile conditions is a little tough that way), and lecturing with a sore throat, sweating with fever, etc.
Not sure all the manic bits driving that, but in the end I suppose it doesn't matter. At some point you either change or stay the same. So instead I've been trying to listen to my body, and when I feel like something is nipping at my heels, I slow down. Way down. Hit the airborne, drink lots of fluids, and plop on the couch. Turns out that your coworkers appreciate you (not spreading the joy), and you body appreciates you. Rest can be just the ticket.
So far the strategy has worked rather well, and I've staved off a number of potential threats by taking the day off from work (well, at least not going into the office), sleeping more, and staying on the couch. My effort consisting of typing emails and the occasional conference call. Turns out I can actually get quite a bit done that way, and time/location aren't that critical. Only for the f2f meetings.
Tomorrow I have some of those f2f meetings though, and I have to take my son to school so in that case doesn't matter if I've kicked the bug or am down in the thick of it...I have to get up and get the boy to class. If I'm really under the weather I'll pass on the meetings, but should be fine. And luckily we have a half day tomorrow (horray for academia and extending 3-day holidays beyond their natural borders).
Time will tell as to what other bits of wisdom I've managed to acquire over the years. Seems like there is always a new situation and new challenge to deal with, be it personal or professional. And deal with it I will. Because things don't just take care of themselves...
