Sometimes, the unexpected happens, and you wake up feeling less than stellar. When that happens, you need to let your boss know you won’t be coming in.
But sending a quick text can feel surprisingly stressful. You want to be clear, professional, and not overshare.
We’ve all been there, staring at your phone, trying to craft the perfect message. It’s a delicate balance between being informative and keeping it brief.
To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of options for every situation. You’ll find messages that are straightforward, a little more detailed, and even some with a touch of humor.
Simple and Direct Messages
Sometimes, the best approach is to be straightforward. A simple message gets the point across without unnecessary details.
This is ideal for when you want to be brief and professional. It respects everyone’s time and avoids any ambiguity.
These messages are perfect for those days when you just need to rest and recover. They ensure your workplace is aware of your absence efficiently.
1. “Good morning, I won’t be able to come into work today as I’m feeling unwell.” – This is a classic, clear, and professional way to state your absence due to illness.
2. “Hi [Boss’s Name], I’ve woken up with a bug and need to take a sick day today.” – This adds a personal touch while still being concise and explaining the reason.
3. “I’m not feeling well and will need to use a sick day today. I’ll keep you updated.” – This shows accountability and promises further communication if needed.
4. “Unfortunately, I’m under the weather and won’t be able to make it to work today.” – A polite and slightly more formal way to inform your boss.
5. “Woke up feeling rough and need to take the day to recover. I’ll be offline today.” – This clearly states your need for rest and sets expectations about your availability.
6. “I’ve come down with something and need to take a sick day. I apologize for any inconvenience.” – This is a polite and considerate message that acknowledges potential disruption.
7. “Not feeling 100% today, so I’ll be taking a sick day. Will check emails periodically if I’m able.” – This offers a small commitment to stay in touch if your condition allows.
8. “I’m going to need to take a sick day today. I’ll be back tomorrow if all goes well.” – This provides a potential return date, which can be helpful for planning.
9. “Feeling unwell and need to rest. I’ll be out of office today.” – A very concise message that clearly communicates your absence and need for rest.
10. “I’ve got a fever and won’t be able to work today. Hoping to be back soon.” – This provides a specific symptom and a hopeful outlook for your return.
11. “I need to take a sick day today due to illness. I’ll be sure to catch up on anything I miss.” – This reassures your boss that you’re committed to staying on top of your work.
12. “I’m feeling quite ill and require a sick day. I’ll let you know if anything changes.” – This emphasizes the severity of your condition and offers further updates.
13. “Unable to come to work today due to feeling unwell. I’ll be resting and will check in tomorrow.” – This clearly states your absence and sets an expectation for communication the following day.
14. “I’ve woken up with a migraine and need to take a sick day. I’ll be in touch when I’m feeling better.” – This specifies a common reason for absence and promises future contact.
15. “I’m not fit for work today and need to take a sick day. I’ll monitor my symptoms and update you.” – This uses slightly more formal language and indicates you’ll be tracking your health.
16. “Taking a sick day today. I’ll be back in the office tomorrow.” – A very brief and confident message about your expected return.
17. “I’ve got a stomach bug and need to take the day off. I’ll be resting.” – This provides a common and understandable reason for needing to stay home.
18. “Feeling unwell and need to take a sick day. I’ve completed [Urgent Task] before signing off.” – This demonstrates proactivity even when you’re unwell.
19. “I’m experiencing flu-like symptoms and will be taking a sick day today.” – This clearly communicates the nature of your illness.
20. “I need to take a sick day today. I’ll have my phone on silent but will check messages if I can.” – This sets expectations for your availability while prioritizing rest.
These direct messages ensure your boss is informed quickly and professionally.
Messages with a Bit More Detail
Sometimes, providing a little more context can be helpful. It can reassure your boss that you’re taking your health seriously.
These messages are useful when you want to offer a brief explanation without oversharing personal medical information.
They strike a good balance between professionalism and a human touch, letting your team know you’re genuinely unwell.
21. “Good morning. I woke up with a nasty cough and fever, so I’ll need to take a sick day today to recover.” – This gives a bit more specific information about your symptoms, helping your boss understand the situation.
22. “Hi [Boss’s Name], I’m feeling quite under the weather with flu symptoms and won’t be able to come in today. I’ll be focusing on resting and hope to be back tomorrow.” – This provides a common reason and a potential return date, which is helpful for planning.
23. “Unfortunately, I’ve developed a severe headache and some nausea, so I’ll be taking a sick day today. I apologize for any inconvenience this causes.” – This explains specific symptoms and shows consideration for the team.
24. “I’ve woken up with a stomach bug and need to take the day to recover. I’ll be sure to check emails later if I’m feeling up to it.” – This gives a clear reason and a conditional offer to stay connected.
25. “I’m not feeling well enough to work today – I’ve got a bit of a bug that’s hit me hard. I’ll be resting up and will update you on my return.” – This conveys the impact of the illness and promises further communication.
26. “I need to take a sick day today due to a sudden illness. I’ve asked [Colleague’s Name] to cover [Urgent Task] for me. I’ll be back as soon as I’m feeling better.” – This shows you’ve taken steps to mitigate the impact of your absence.
27. “I’ve woken up with a sore throat and congestion, and I don’t want to spread anything. I’ll be taking a sick day today to rest.” – This explains your symptoms and your consideration for workplace health.
28. “I’m experiencing some concerning symptoms and think it’s best to take a sick day today to rest and monitor them.” – This is a slightly more cautious approach, indicating you’re being vigilant about your health.
29. “I woke up feeling quite weak and achy, so I’ll need to use a sick day today. I’ll be focusing on getting some rest.” – This describes general symptoms that are clearly indicative of needing a day off.
30. “I’ve come down with something that’s making me feel quite unwell. I’ll be taking a sick day today and hope to be back by [Day].” – This provides a timeframe for your absence, which is often appreciated.
31. “I’m experiencing a severe allergic reaction and need to take a sick day to manage it. I’ll keep you updated.” – This specifies a particular type of health issue that requires immediate attention and rest.
32. “I’ve got a nasty head cold and don’t think I’d be productive today, so I’m taking a sick day to recover.” – This focuses on your ability to perform your job effectively, which is a professional consideration.
33. “I need to take a sick day today due to a sudden flare-up of a chronic condition. I’ll be back as soon as I’m able.” – This is for ongoing conditions and implies you’ll return when you’re feeling better.
34. “I’m feeling quite run down and think I might be coming down with something. I’ll be taking a sick day today to rest and prevent it from getting worse.” – This proactive approach shows you’re trying to manage your health effectively.
35. “I’ve got a fever and chills and need to take a sick day today. I’ll be resting and hoping to feel better soon.” – This provides clear symptoms and a hopeful outlook for recovery.
36. “I’m experiencing some discomfort and need to take a sick day to get it checked out. I’ll let you know what I find out.” – This indicates you’re seeking medical attention and will provide updates.
37. “I’ve woken up with a rather persistent cough and need to take a sick day to avoid spreading germs.” – This highlights your responsibility towards the health of your colleagues.
38. “I’m not feeling well enough to be at my best today, so I’m taking a sick day to focus on recovery.” – This frames your absence in terms of your productivity and commitment to quality work.
39. “I need to take a sick day today due to feeling quite unwell. I’ll have my phone nearby in case of emergencies.” – This offers a limited form of availability for urgent matters.
40. “I’ve got a bit of a bug that’s knocked me for a loop. I’ll be taking a sick day today to focus on getting back to 100%.” – This uses a more informal, relatable phrase to describe feeling unwell.
Adding a little more detail can help your boss understand and manage your absence better.
Messages with a Touch of Personality/Humor
While professionalism is key, sometimes a little personality can make the message more relatable. These are for workplaces with a more relaxed culture.
Use these sparingly and only if you’re confident your boss will appreciate the tone. It’s about showing you’re human without being unprofessional.
These messages can lighten the mood slightly while still conveying the essential information about your absence.
41. “My alarm clock and my body were in a disagreement this morning, and my body won. I’m taking a sick day!” – A lighthearted way to say you’re too tired or unwell to get up and go.
42. “Woke up feeling like I wrestled a bear and lost. Definitely need a sick day to recover!” – A humorous exaggeration to explain feeling physically unwell.
43. “My brain has decided to go on strike today due to a severe lack of sleep/well-being. I’ll be taking a sick day.” – This is a funny way to say you’re not mentally or physically up to the task.
44. “I seem to have caught the ‘can’t-be-bothered-to-come-in’ bug, which is apparently quite serious. Taking a sick day!” – A playful way to indicate you’re feeling unwell and need rest.
45. “My body is staging a protest against going to work today. I’m officially taking a sick day to negotiate with it.” – This uses a metaphor to humorously explain your need for a day off.
46. “I’ve been struck by a sudden case of ‘need to stay in bed and binge-watch something.’ Taking a sick day!” – A relatable and humorous excuse for needing to stay home.
47. “My immune system has apparently decided to take a vacation without me. I’ll be taking a sick day to help it reconsider.” – This is a witty way to say you’re feeling sick and need to recover.
48. “I’m not feeling particularly heroic today, more like a damp dishcloth. Taking a sick day to recharge.” – A self-deprecating and humorous description of feeling unwell.
49. “My internal ‘well-being’ meter is flashing red, so I’m taking a sick day to avoid a system crash.” – A tech-themed, humorous way to explain feeling unwell.
50. “I’ve been diagnosed with a severe case of ‘need more sleep.’ Taking a sick day to treat it.” – A funny and relatable reason for needing a day off.
51. “My vocal cords have decided to take a hiatus. I’m taking a sick day to try and coax them back.” – If you have a sore throat or laryngitis, this is a humorous approach.
52. “I’m currently operating at dial-up speed. Taking a sick day to upgrade my system.” – A humorous way to say you’re feeling slow and unwell.
53. “My motivation seems to have called in sick today, so I’m following suit. Taking a sick day!” – A lighthearted excuse that acknowledges a lack of drive due to feeling unwell.
54. “I’ve been hit by a rogue sneeze and feel completely out of sorts. Taking a sick day to recover.” – A funny and slightly absurd reason for needing to stay home.
55. “My body is demanding a spa day (aka, bed rest). I’m taking a sick day to comply.” – A humorous take on prioritizing self-care when you’re unwell.
56. “I seem to have misplaced my energy reserves. Taking a sick day to search for them.” – A playful way to say you’re feeling exhausted and unwell.
57. “My stomach is staging a mutiny. Taking a sick day to quell the rebellion.” – A humorous description of gastrointestinal distress.
58. “I’ve caught a case of the ‘mellow yellows’ and need to stay home. Taking a sick day!” – A quirky and lighthearted way to say you’re feeling unwell.
59. “My productivity levels have plummeted to an all-time low. Taking a sick day to recalibrate.” – This frames your absence in terms of work performance, humorously.
60. “I’m currently experiencing a severe allergic reaction to Mondays. Kidding! I’m just feeling unwell and taking a sick day.” – A classic joke with a sincere follow-up.
These messages can add a bit of levity, but always gauge your workplace culture first.
Messages for Specific Situations
Sometimes, your sick day is for a more specific reason, like an appointment or a contagious illness. Being clear in these cases is important.
These messages help manage expectations and inform your boss about any specific needs or precautions.
They ensure your absence is understood within its unique context, maintaining transparency.
61. “Good morning. I have a doctor’s appointment scheduled for a pre-existing condition and need to take the day off.” – This is professional and explains the reason without oversharing medical details.
62. “Hi [Boss’s Name], I’ve woken up with a high fever and some concerning symptoms. I’ll be taking a sick day today and will get tested for [illness].” – This indicates you’re taking precautions and seeking medical advice.
63. “I need to take a sick day today to recover from a minor procedure I had yesterday. I’ll be resting and will check in tomorrow.” – This explains a recent medical event and sets an expectation for follow-up.
64. “Unfortunately, I’ve come down with something contagious and need to take a sick day to avoid spreading it. I’ll let you know when I’m in the clear.” – This prioritizes workplace health and provides a commitment to update.
65. “I’m experiencing severe allergy symptoms today and need to take a sick day to manage them. I’ll be back when they subside.” – This addresses a specific and often debilitating condition.
66. “I need to take a sick day today to care for a sick family member. I’ll have limited access to my phone.” – This explains your absence is due to caregiving responsibilities and sets communication expectations.
67. “I’ve been advised by my doctor to rest for 24-48 hours due to a suspected infection. I’ll be taking a sick day today.” – This conveys medical advice and a timeframe for your absence.
68. “I’m feeling quite unwell with flu-like symptoms and need to take a sick day to recover and prevent further spread.” – This is a clear and responsible message for contagious illnesses.
69. “I’ve woken up with a migraine that’s making it impossible to focus. I’ll be taking a sick day to rest and recover.” – This specifies a common but debilitating condition.
70. “I need to take a sick day today due to a sudden and unexpected illness. I’ll keep you updated on my condition.” – This is for situations where you can’t provide much advance notice or detail.
71. “I’m experiencing significant back pain and need to take a sick day to rest. I’ll be back as soon as I can move comfortably.” – This addresses a specific physical ailment.
72. “I’ve been feeling unwell for a couple of days and need to take another sick day to fully recover. I’ll be back tomorrow hopefully.” – For when you need more than one day to get better.
73. “I’m taking a sick day today to recover from a minor injury sustained outside of work. I’ll be back once I’m feeling up to it.” – This explains an injury without going into too much detail.
74. “I’ve woken up feeling quite nauseous and unwell. I’ll be taking a sick day to rest and recuperate.” – This addresses a common symptom that can be quite debilitating.
75. “I need to take a sick day today due to a flare-up of a chronic condition. I’ll be back as soon as I’m feeling stable.” – Similar to previous, but emphasizes stability as a return metric.
76. “I’ve got a nasty sore throat and don’t want to risk infecting anyone. Taking a sick day today.” – A clear and considerate message for throat-related illnesses.
77. “I’m experiencing severe eye strain and discomfort and need to take a sick day to rest my eyes.” – This is relevant for jobs that involve a lot of screen time.
78. “I need to take a sick day today due to a sudden bout of dizziness. I’ll be resting and will update you if anything changes.” – This addresses a symptom that can be disorienting and concerning.
79. “I’ve caught a bug that’s making me feel quite run down. Taking a sick day to focus on recovery.” – A general but effective way to communicate feeling unwell.
80. “I’ve been advised to take a sick day today by my doctor due to feeling unwell. I’ll follow up with them tomorrow.” – This emphasizes that medical advice has been given.
These messages are tailored to specific circumstances, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
Follow-Up and Future-Oriented Messages
Sometimes, the conversation doesn’t end with the initial text. You might need to provide updates or mention your return.
These messages help maintain communication and ensure a smooth transition back to work.
They show your commitment to your role and your team, even when you’re recovering.
81. “Hi [Boss’s Name], just wanted to update you that I’m still feeling unwell and will need to take another sick day today. I apologize for the extended absence.” – For when your recovery takes longer than expected.
82. “Good morning. I’m feeling much better today and will be back in the office. I’ll catch up on emails first thing.” – A positive update announcing your return to work.
83. “Just a quick update: I’m still feeling a bit rough but plan to be in tomorrow. I’ll let you know if that changes.” – This provides an updated expectation for your return.
84. “Thank you for your understanding. I’m resting up and aiming to be back on [Day]. I’ll confirm closer to the time.” – Shows gratitude and provides a tentative return date.
85. “I’m feeling significantly improved and will be returning to work tomorrow. I’ll do my best to get up to speed quickly.” – Reassures your boss of your commitment upon return.
86. “Still not 100%, but I’ll be logging in remotely today. I’ll be available via email and chat.” – For when you can work from home even if you’re not fully recovered.
87. “Thank you for the well wishes. I’m on the mend and hope to be back in the office by [Day].” – Expresses gratitude and gives a potential return date.
88. “I’ve had a doctor’s visit and will require a few more days to recover. I’ll keep you updated on my progress.” – Informs your boss about medical advice and ongoing recovery.
89. “I’m feeling much better and will be back at my desk tomorrow. Please let me know if there’s anything urgent I should be aware of.” – Proactive in asking for important updates before returning.
90. “Just wanted to let you know I’m still recovering and will need to extend my sick leave for [Number] more days. I’ll be back on [Date].” – Provides a clear extension and a new return date.
91. “I’m feeling a lot better and will be back in the office tomorrow morning. I’ll be sure to check in with you first thing.” – Shows you’ll prioritize communication upon your return.
92. “Thank you for covering for me. I’m feeling better and will be back tomorrow, ready to jump back in.” – Acknowledges any help received and expresses readiness to return.
93. “I’m still experiencing some lingering symptoms but will be back in the office tomorrow. I’ll take it easy if needed.” – Sets expectations for a potentially slower pace upon return.
94. “Just a heads-up, I’m feeling much improved and will be back in the office tomorrow. I’ll be sure to tackle my tasks.” – Confident message about returning and being productive.
95. “I’ve been cleared by my doctor to return to work. I’ll be back in the office tomorrow morning.” – Confirms you have medical clearance to return.
96. “I’m feeling well enough to return to work tomorrow. Thank you for your patience and understanding.” – Shows appreciation for the flexibility shown during your absence.
97. “Just wanted to let you know I’m feeling much better and will be back in the office tomorrow. I’ll have a lot to catch up on!” – Acknowledges the backlog and your readiness to tackle it.
98. “I’m still recovering, but I plan to be back in the office on [Date]. I’ll be sure to check my emails periodically until then.” – Provides a return date and limited availability beforehand.
99. “Feeling significantly better and looking forward to being back in the office tomorrow. Thanks for everything!” – A positive and grateful message about returning.
100. “I’m back! Feeling much improved and ready to get back to work. Thanks for your support.” – A simple and enthusiastic announcement of your return.
These messages help manage expectations and ensure a smooth return to your work responsibilities.
Remember, the goal is to be clear, professional, and considerate of your workplace.
Choose the message that best fits your situation and your company culture.
And most importantly, focus on getting well so you can return to work feeling your best.