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If there’s a defining narrative for 2021, it’s undoubtedly the Great Resignation. This term refers to the widespread departure of individuals from their jobs, fed up with the nonsense—specifically, toxic work environments. When we think of toxicity, our minds often drift to unhealthy relationships or negative friends. However, it’s crucial to recognize that such detrimental dynamics can also manifest in the workplace.
Let’s talk about another term that is far more direct than the Great Resignation: rage quitting. This is exactly what it sounds like. While I’ve never actually tossed my laptop out the window, I can’t deny that the thought crosses my mind frequently. Besides the hope for an end to the pandemic, my primary daydream revolves around leaving my job. I know firsthand the consequences of remaining in a toxic atmosphere for an extended period. After nearly four years, I didn’t have many complaints until January. In fact, I was initially impressed by how my company managed the challenges posed by Covid.
While many were losing their jobs or forced to engage with customers in person, I was fortunate enough to work from home—a privilege I do not take lightly. However, just because my employer provided that benefit doesn’t erase the fact that our team dynamic has deteriorated into a chaotic nightmare. Sounds dramatic? Trust me, it’s not. This is the reality of logging into a crumbling environment five days a week for eight hours. Allowing most employees to work from home shouldn’t be an issue, as we’re all adults, correct? Unfortunately, some colleagues are the reason we can’t enjoy this privilege.
Toxicity Can Exist in the Workplace
Some team members have completely disengaged, while others are overly focused on proving that remote work can be productive. While neither of these attitudes is inherently bad, the expectations set by our manager for those of us in the middle create chaos.
Recently, I had a check-in with my manager—a routine conversation to discuss how things were going. For the first time, I decided to be completely honest about my struggles. Admitting that I’m not superwoman is something I despise, but I had reached my breaking point and knew that changes were necessary if I wanted to stay in this role. So, we proceeded with the usual formalities until the moment for open discussion arrived. Before I could share my thoughts, I was asked, “So, where’s your head at?”
It was a mix of sarcasm and a rhetorical inquiry. Here’s the reality: when I started this job, I was an overachiever—someone who drove my colleagues crazy by always being ahead of the curve. I made it look effortless, but the truth is that untreated mental health issues—specifically high-functioning anxiety—were my real motivators. So, I took a chance and opened up about my struggles. I didn’t owe my manager an explanation for my reduced workload, but I still felt it necessary to communicate that I was meeting my role’s expectations even if I was no longer overextending myself.
When I prioritized self-care, I began to meet the minimum standards. And what’s wrong with that? Absolutely nothing. I wasn’t sure how my manager would react—perhaps with empathy or at least some understanding? Instead, I was met with irritation. “You set the bar high for yourself, and that expectation isn’t going to change,” she replied. What could I say to that? Maybe she misunderstood my intentions, so I elaborated.
“I used to operate at an 11, but that was because I was unwell. Now, I’m trying to find balance, aiming to be healthier mentally, emotionally, and physically. That’s brought me down to a 7 or 8. I still perform well in my job, just at a more realistic pace.”
Clearly, this wasn’t the response she was hoping for. But that’s the truth, and that won’t change. I can’t continue to sacrifice my health and personal life to meet unrealistic demands from my boss. It’s simply not sustainable or fair.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Although I haven’t had this exact conversation before, I’ve encountered many similar situations. If your job prioritizes productivity over people, it’s toxic. Companies often forget that without the individuals who keep operations running, there is no company. I’m not suggesting that employees should be coddled, but it’s essential to respect that we are human too. The era where the threat of being replaceable kept people trapped in toxic environments is over. Let’s cut the nonsense—it doesn’t need to be a power struggle. I offer my time and meet expectations, and in return, I expect fair treatment and compensation. If that’s not achievable, then expect people to start prioritizing their own well-being.
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Summary:
The article discusses the author’s struggle with a toxic work environment and the daily fantasy of rage quitting their job. Despite initial satisfaction with their company’s handling of Covid, the team dynamic has soured, leading to burnout and a desire for balance. The author emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health and the need for employers to recognize the humanity of their employees.