Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you decide to buy a product or service we recommend.
Imagine this: you finally have some free time to indulge in your favorite hobby, but your co-worker needs your help at work.
You set aside free time to play a popular new game, and now you’re being asked to work instead. What do you do?
One man’s decision to prioritize his gaming passion over his co-worker’s request sparked an online debate. But was he wrong?
Let’s dive in and explore this dilemma.
Hobby vs. Work
The most recent Legend of Zelda game was released months in advance. And one OP (Original Poster) — who we’ll call Josh for the sake of the story — couldn’t wait to play it.
Like any responsible gamer, Josh requested the day off on the game’s release date. However, Josh’s hopes were dashed in an instant.
A Clash of Priorities in the Workplace
Josh’s plan was simple: to play the Legend of Zelda the same day the game was released.
Coincidentally, the day the game was released was the Friday before Mother’s Day. Josh’s company had limits on how many people could request time off during this period.
Naturally, Josh’s passion for gaming led him to tell his co-workers his plans on the day Legend of Zelda was released.
Generally speaking, sharing one’s hobbies is a good way to connect and make friends with co-workers. However, the opposite occurred for this gamer.
Taking Time Off
Shortly after Josh shared his plans with some of his co-workers, word spread quickly around the office.
One of Josh’s co-workers — who we’ll call Nancy — asked Josh for his PTO (paid time off), so she could travel during Mother’s Day.
Is It Okay to Prioritize Personal Interests Over Work Obligations?
Josh explained to Nancy that he had requested time off a few months in advance for a “specific reason” and didn’t plan on changing his plans.
No one likes to be rejected, and Nancy is no different. “She got pretty upset with me claiming I care more about video games more than family and whatnot.”
Feeling Guilty
Josh was upset at this point. He prepared months in advance for this event, and then someone tried to disrupt (and belittle) his plans.
“I honestly don’t really care about her not being able to travel because I feel like if this was an important date, then you would have requested it off early, like I did.”
Coping With the Consequences of Choosing a Hobby Over a Co-Worker
However, the story doesn’t end here.
Josh believed he was right, and he wasn’t about to let another person’s failure to plan in advance derail his day off.
“I firmly told her no.”
When Work Relationships Turn Sour
Shortly after Josh told Nancy he wouldn’t give up his PTO, she told her co-workers about Josh’s response.
Due to this, many of Josh’s co-workers now call him inconsiderate and believe he is a bad person for not giving up his PTO for Nancy.
Revealing What People Really Think
“I would have told her I care more about my family than videogames, your family not so much. Her family is not your responsibility. She should have planned better.”
Exploring Public Opinion
“It’s not like Mother’s Day is a surprise or random event. Both employees had advance knowledge of what they wanted to do on that day, but only one requested the time off. It does not matter what either of them wants to do on their day off, it’s literally nobody’s business to know,” one online user remarked.
Inside the Action
Another user argued: “Mother’s Day is listed on a calendar every year even though the actual date may vary. Poor planning on their part does not equal an emergency on yours. You planned. You deserve it, and it doesn’t matter why you booked it off. FWIW, I’ve booked vacation around video game releases and it’s amazing. Enjoy your time off and your game!”
Finding a Middle Ground for Personal Interests and Professional Obligations
Never let anyone belittle your passion for your favorite hobby.
Unfortunately, even though Josh prepared months in advance for this special day, he was called a bad person and criticized by his co-workers.
Have you ever experienced unfair treatment when requesting time off?
More articles from Financially Well Off:
10 Big Things That Will Die Out With the Baby Boomers
As the baby boomer generation enters retirement, many cultural touchstones they grew up with are becoming obsolete. From cell phones to debit cards, here are 10 things that are likely to die out with the baby boomers. Discover which once-iconic items are on their way out and what’s taking their place in modern society.
10 Big Things That Will Die Out With the Baby Boomers
From Social Media to Diamonds: 10 Things That Millennials Are Leaving Behind
As the millennial generation ages, so do the cultural touchstones that define their youth. From multiplayer games to landline phones, here are the top 10 things that are likely to die out with the millennial generation. Find out what’s here to stay.
From Social Media to Diamonds: 10 Things That Millennials Are Leaving Behind
The Dark Side of Winning the Lottery: What No One Tells You!
We all dream of winning the lottery and having unlimited funds to fulfill our desires. But what if we told you that there’s a hidden dark side that nobody talks about? Winning the lottery can leave you feeling isolated, alone, and even depressed. Buckle up and get ready to have your eyes opened to the realities of winning the lottery.
The Dark Side of Winning the Lottery: What No One Tells You!
I Quit! The Real Reasons Why Some People Walk Out of Their Jobs Without Warning
Quitting a job impulsively is a drastic move, but sometimes, it’s the only option. Life’s too short, right? Here are real reasons employees leave their jobs, from toxic work environments to unmanageable workloads. Discover the warning signs so you can avoid being in this awkward position.
I Quit! The Real Reasons Why Some People Walk Out of Their Jobs Without Warning
10 Honest Ways People Respond to a Homeless Person Asking for Money
When a homeless person asks for money, it can be a difficult situation to navigate. Here are 10 honest ways that people respond, from giving money to politely declining. Each approach has its pros and cons, so find out which one works best for you and your values.
10 Honest Ways People Respond to a Homeless Person Asking for Money
This thread inspired this post.
The ideas presented in this article don’t necessarily align with the views or opinions of the Financially Well Off.
