Breakups are painful. You feel drained, depressed, and listless. According to psychologists, a breakup can even trigger a real existential crisis. The last thing you feel like doing is going to the office. Nevertheless, in everyday working life, it is rarely possible to take into account whether someone is suffering from heartbreak. As painful as the end of a relationship is, as a rule a breakup is not a recognized reason to stay at home. Exceptions only apply in the event of the death of a partner. In this case, there is usually the possibility of being granted several days off by the employer. The employer decides whether the Special leave is granted. In addition, many collective agreements contain explicit regulations for such special cases.
However, the fact that it is not possible to get a sick note for heartbreak is actually a blessing for many people. Because the job provides the necessary routine so as not to sink completely into one's own misery. This is also confirmed by psychotherapist Prof. Anna Schoch from Munich: “In this situation, there is nothing better than a job that challenges you. Work is the best remedy.”
Breakup as a career opportunity
The therapist advises not to see the end of a relationship only negatively. Instead, it should be viewed as an opportunity to boost one's career. Because a breakup creates space to dedicate oneself to the job with a completely different intensity. On the one hand, simply through the free time that the end of a relationship brings, during which new projects can be initiated and overtime can be worked. After all, after a breakup, there is less need to consider one's own private life and the partner's plans. On the other hand, the loss of a loved one triggers an increased striving for success, which can be fulfilled through work. Even small successes, such as preparing for a meeting or giving a presentation, can nurture one's damaged self-confidence.
Anyone who is so strongly influenced by severe heartbreak that they can no longer manage their own workload should seek a conversation with their boss. You shouldn't expect pity, but you can hope for understanding. Because even if a smooth workflow must be guaranteed, a good boss has leeway that they can use. In most cases, an employee can, for example, delegate responsibility for some time. For larger projects, now might be the right time to introduce young colleagues to management tasks. As soon as the crisis is overcome, the employee can return with renewed strength. However, seeking a private conversation with the boss requires a certain level of trust.
