Asking for a Day Off

My sister's wedding was on a Friday, and I needed the day off. I'm new at the company, so I was afraid to ask. I thought my boss would say no, or think I was lazy. I waited two weeks and worried every day.

Finally I went to her office. I said, "Excuse me, Bu Ratna. My sister is getting married next Friday. Could I take the day off?" I was ready for a long explanation. She looked at her calendar and said, "Of course. Congratulations to your sister."

That was all. Two weeks of worry for a ten-second conversation. I learned that most managers are not monsters; they just need to know early. Now I ask as soon as I know, and I sleep much better.