Slothful at work?

[1AspiringSaint1]

So I work in landscape, and am a part if a team. Basically, about 6 of us go out together and weedeat all day. However, when the bosses aren’t there, we sometimes take breaks when we should be working. I’m not sure what to do here, because we’re being paid to do the work, not rest. We have scheduled breaks. I don’t know if I have the courage to just go out and work by myself, but I probably should right?

I don’t know if this is a mortal sin, because it may not be grave, but what do you all think?

 

[Le_Bonvivant]

Come on man relax, that’s not a sin, you worry too much.

Don’t be like Martha in the gospels!

 

[john1513]

You won’t offend anyone by working. Others might feel the same as you and need a leader. You could just say, “I need the exercise.” or “Time to make money.”

 

[Mary_Estelle]

Your job/work is a contract with your employer. If you are not fufilling your end of the contract you are cheating your employer unless weather or health is an issue. It is a sin as you knowingly “cheat” the boss. If you are working for the city or government you would also be cheating taxpayers. While it may not be a mortal-grave sin-they add up and enforce an attitude that implies that it is OK to cheat. If according to your post name, you really want to be a saint, you will man up-step up and do what is right and that would be to honor your 'contract. Peace and prayers.

 

[EasterJoy]

OP, the number of breaks that people rightly take when doing physical work outdoors will depend on the conditions, particularly in the summer. We can’t tell if your co-workers are taking inappropriate breaks just by whether or not their breaks coincide with the number you’re allowed under average or easier conditions.

Have you ever asked them about this? You might have the courage to ask them why you take breaks more often than the standard. I’d think this is a better way to broach the subject than presuming that they’re out to cheat your boss by slacking.

Come on man relax, that’s not a sin, you worry too much.

Don’t be like Martha in the gospels!

His co-workers aren’t breaking for the Angelus bells. Yes, though, if it bothers him, he ought to consider just talking to them about it, rather than automatically assuming they aren’t acting appropriately (as Martha did).

 

[pianistclare]

If conditions are such that you need more breaks, or more frequent shorter breaks, then tell your employer.
He needs to know, and will likely be happy to work something out, rather than a over tired or weak person hurting themselves or others with equipment.
Be reasonable, and have a frank discussion.

In any event, what you describe doesn’t come close to “sloth”.

 

[MaryT777]

You won’t offend anyone by working. Others might feel the same as you and need a leader. You could just say, “I need the exercise.” or “Time to make money.”

This is an excellent idea.