We’ve all had those mornings when the alarm clock feels like our worst enemy, and the thought of heading to work seems unbearable. While some people call in sick with a cough or migraine, others take creativity to a whole new level. From bizarre to downright hilarious, here are some of the most ridiculous excuses employees have used to skip work.
1. “My pet is having a bad day”
A classic for pet lovers! One employee reportedly called in saying their cat was “feeling sad” and needed emotional support. Another insisted their dog was “acting strangely” and needed close monitoring. Because, obviously, pets have mental health days too!
2. “I got stuck in my house”
Imagine waking up, getting ready for work, and then realizing—you can’t leave! One person claimed their doorknob broke, trapping them inside. Another said their automatic gate malfunctioned, making escape impossible. Did they ever hear of calling a locksmith?
3. “I saw a black cat and took it as a sign”
Superstition can be a powerful force! One worker refused to leave home after a black cat crossed their path, fearing bad luck would follow them all day. Some might call it an excuse; they called it self-preservation.
4. “I accidentally boarded a plane”
Believe it or not, one employee called in saying they had “accidentally” gotten on a flight to another city. How? No one knows. But their boss must have had a hard time keeping a straight face.
5. “I swallowed a toothpick”
An excuse that raises more questions than it answers. Was it in their food? Were they chewing on it absentmindedly? Either way, they insisted they needed the day off to recover from this unexpected ‘injury.’
6. “I got my finger stuck in a bowling ball”
Some people enjoy a fun night out, but one worker took it to another level by claiming their finger was stuck in a bowling ball… and that’s why they couldn’t make it to work.
Moral of the story? Creativity knows no bounds when it comes to skipping work! Which of these is your favorite? Or do you have a wilder excuse?