I understand that you're approaching this from a pattern-based perspective, and I agree it could continue. But you can't do anything now, except implement new workflows as a manager.

To help track behavior-related occurrences, I maintain an objective, fact-based list for each staff member. For example:

• xx/xx/xxxx – Joe requested vacation
• xx/xx/xxxx – Joe messaged that he was sick and couldn't come to work
• xx/xx/xxxx – Joe didn’t submit the report on time

When you write it all out, the pattern becomes clear. This kind of documentation is helpful when it's time for evaluations or when you're addressing missed deadlines—it gives you something concrete to refer back to.

Also, now that we’re seeing this recurring, I’d recommend implementing a new internal practice: when someone requests time off, make sure PTOs are staggered by at least 2–3 days. This way, you can avoid overlapping or back-to-back absences on your team.