I spent about a third of last year sick. I caught 4 colds, one awful stomach bug, and the flu which turned into bronchitis. As a result, I had to have 10 sick days off work, including 4 in a row, which is just unheard of for me.
One could argue that the reason behind my constant flow of illnesses was because I had turned 30 and my body had therefore given it in as everything is downhill from 30. However, the real reason was a combination of three factors:
- Firstly, last year was one of the worst years on record for colds and flus in Brisbane. So, chances are, I was going to get sick at least once or twice.
- Secondly, I was quite iron deficient, so my immune system was not functioning as well as it usually does.
- Thirdly, we spent over two months renovating our laundry and garage all day every weekend and after work. Consequently, I overworked myself and didn’t give myself enough rest and recovery time.
Other than the nuisance of constantly feeling far less than 100%, being sick is costly. The ten sick days I used, cost me $467 in higher duties pay as I get paid at my base wage for sick leave. Additionally, these days also cost me the ability to earn overtime.
Further to this, I also had the cost of 3 doctors appointments which left me $135 out of pocket. On top of this were multiple cold and flu tablet purchases, 3 bottles of cough syrup, vitamins, and immunity soup ingredients.
All up, these illnesses cost me in excess of $750, as well as ruining multiple weekends and a holiday to Perth.
As a result of this, my primary New Years resolution for 2018 is to look after my health. Firstly, I’ve started to get my iron levels under control. Secondly, I ensure that I get enough rest and recovery time each weekend. And, thirdly, I am focusing more on my nutrition and reducing my alcohol intake.
It is my hope that by looking after my health, my health will in turn look after my wallet. I encourage you to get on top of your finances by doing the same!
Cheers, TFC.
