Gen Z employees are known for their openness and occasionally surprising reasons for taking time off work. From needing a day off to get a haircut to caring for a sick pet mouse, tending to a depressed cat, or simply feeling too lazy, these young workers are unafraid to express their personal needs. Jamie Lynch, a Millennial manager, has shared some of these unique and humorous excuses on Instagram, where her posts have struck a chord with social media users, especially fellow managers who find them both relatable and amusing.
However, Lynch revealed that not all of her staff are pleased with the public attention. Some employees are upset by the negative comments they have received. Speaking to Newsweek, Lynch explained, “They have very strong personal boundaries when it comes to their well-being. I respect this about them because, when I was their age, my managers would threaten to fire me if I called in sick. Sometimes they’re hard to motivate, and they call in for crazy reasons, but they’re fun and bring a fresh perspective. I’m also a bit jealous of their personal boundaries—I haven’t taken a vacation day this year because I’m so dedicated to my job.”
The Instagram post prompted a variety of reactions online. One user commented, “I’m not saying I agree with these younger people’s views, but the older generation making fun of them is the same generation that raised them.”
Another user questioned the need to explain leave requests, stating, “Why do you have to explain why you want a day off? If the employee has days off left and requests it according to company policy, I don’t see why the reason should matter.”
Some commenters were more critical, with one writing, “She’s letting them off too easy. They don’t respect her or the workplace. She should warn them that next time, they’ll be fired.”
Another person added, “She has the patience of a saint. I wouldn’t deal with that nonsense.”
Others were shocked by the casual attitude of some employees, with one user stating, “It’s really shocking how they just skip work because they have other priorities that day. They get fired, don’t care, find another job, and do the same thing. It’s weird behavior.” Another commenter praised Lynch’s approach, saying, “The way she handles her team deserves applause. It’s like she’s dealing with 5-year-olds, yet she remains calm— it’s impressive.”
Despite the mixed reactions, the Millennial manager noted that her videos have received significant positive feedback, with many viewers sharing similar experiences with their own employees. Lynch remains encouraged to create more content, appreciating the unique energy that Gen Z workers bring to the workplace. While their unconventional leave requests provide plenty of laughs, she values the fresh perspective they offer and the lively atmosphere they help foster within her team.