Chiki Kuruka offers advice to workers who have normalised faking excuses
Chiki Kuruka, who is singer Bien’s manager and also his wife, has asked workers to stop giving excuses when they arrive late and instead say the truth about what delayed them.
In an Instagram video on Monday, December 1, 2025, she said it is hard to set up good systems at work when people keep using the same excuses, especially claims like “losing a grandparent.”
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She said, “Also, let’s normalise being honest about why we are late. As a boss, it’s impossible to create systems that support if guys are always ‘losing a grandparent’. Tell me you are hungover, tell me you overslept, tell me your kid didn’t sleep well last night, tell me you just needed an extra hour! It may not be an accepted reason, but at least it lets me understand you.”
She explained that telling the truth helps the workplace run better because it gives a clear picture of what employees are dealing with. She said honesty makes it easier for a boss to understand why someone might struggle with time management.
She added that everyone has their own challenges and said, “Ultimately, we are all just trying to do our best with our various quirks and circumstances.”
Her advice on listening to your body
Chiki said people should also learn to listen to their bodies. She explained that sometimes a person may simply need more time before they can start their day.
She said, “It is okay to give yourself permission when your body is telling you, nah, you need more time… so always listen to that voice as well. It is not always gonna come there often, but listen to it when it comes. Because honestly, having that extra hour and a half just to drink coffee, sitting down….”
Her message comes at a time when she has been talking more about how busy her own schedule can be, especially when she is handling Bien’s tours and work plans. She often speaks about long days, travel plans and how demanding her role can get.
She encouraged people to stop using excuses and instead explain what really happened, whether it is a lack of sleep, trouble at home, or simply needing more time to get ready for the day.
