Employee Asks For 'Sicko Leave' To Attend Travis Scott Concert; Boss Left Shocked

In a recent viral post on LinkedIn, consultant Gaurav Sharma shared an unusual leave request from a junior employee, who sought 'Sicko Leave' to attend a Travis Scott concert in Mumbai on 19 November 2025.

Initially assuming it was a typographical error, Sharma soon discovered that the request was genuine, leading to widespread amusement and discussion on workplace norms.A Humorous ExchangeSharma attached a screenshot of the email, which began with a cordial greeting: 'Hey Gaurav, Hope you’re doing well! I wanted to request leave for Wednesday, 19 November. Travis Scott is performing in Mumbai that day, and I’ve got tickets.' The email continued, stating, 'While it’s important to work, it’s just as important to vibe. So please consider this my official application for one day of Sicko Leave - purely in the interest of maintaining work-life balance and cultural relevance.'

The junior employee's rationale for the request highlighted a significant shift in attitudes towards work-life balance, emphasising personal fulfilment alongside professional obligations. Sharma, reflecting on the exchange, expressed his bemusement, noting that during his career, individuals typically provided more conventional reasons for taking time off, such as illness or family commitments.

Generational DifferencesSharma's post resonated with many, sparking discussions about generational differences in workplace expectations. Commenters highlighted the evolving boundaries between personal enjoyment and professional responsibilities. Sharma remarked, 'Don’t get me wrong - I love music. But if concerts are now a reason to take a mid-week leave, I have clearly fostered the wrong work culture.'This incident raises important questions about what constitutes a valid reason for taking sick leave and how much trust managers should place in employees to manage their time effectively. As workplace dynamics continue to evolve, this exchange serves as a humorous yet poignant reminder of the changing landscape of professional life.