Navigating the world of work is a universal part of life. Whether you’re aiming to make ends meet or pursuing your dream job, most of us will clock in at some point to pay those bills and support ourselves and our loved ones.
In an ideal scenario, work would be a source of fulfillment, but for many, it remains a means to an end. This is especially true for students who often find their first job is far from their dream occupation.
Do you recall your first job experience? It might have been a labor of love or an unpleasant necessity. Recently, a transgender Starbucks employee took to social media to share their less-than-ideal work situation.
In a video circulated on Twitter, this Starbucks worker found solace in the stockroom to air their grievances. They vented about the manager, the work schedule, dealing with customers, and the absence of a union. Additionally, the employee expressed frustration over being “misgendered” by customers and the demands of long hours, all while juggling the responsibilities of being a student.
How long were these so-called “long hours”? We’re talking about an 8-hour shift. The employee explained, “I’m a full-time student, and they schedule me for 25 hours a week. On weekends, I’m scheduled for the entire day, from opening to closing. I’m on the schedule for 8 and a half hours both Saturday and Sunday.”
While struggling to hold back tears, the employee contemplated quitting their Starbucks job. However, not everyone sympathized with their predicament. One comment dismissed the employee’s struggles, saying, “Do I have any sympathy for this young spoiled kid? No. At 17, I was overseas with an M-16, working 12-hour days or more. It was tough – bad food, bad weather, dangerous conditions. Yet, those were some of the best times of my life, forging lasting friendships. Grow up, kid.”
Another voice echoed a sentiment of resilience, stating, “It feels like the world is getting softer every second. I’ve never seen so many people collectively complain. The world owes us nothing. Work hard, climb the ladder, and find a position that challenges you less. It’s simple.”
Nonetheless, not everyone dismissed the Starbucks employee’s grievances. Some rallied behind their frustration, with one person defending them by saying, “He’s allowed to be frustrated at Starbucks and with his manager not pulling their weight. People keep bringing up his 8-hour shifts, but working while being a full-time student can be draining. He’s just venting, so what?”
Another supporter weighed in, highlighting the stress of balancing 25 hours of work a week with full-time student commitments. They urged us to consider work-life balance and better mental health, reminding us not to judge those who are clearly struggling.
So, the question remains: Was the Starbucks employee justified in their complaints, or was their venting unwarranted? In the end, the verdict may vary depending on one’s perspective, but it underscores the importance of understanding and empathizing with the challenges that different individuals face in their work and life journeys.
image source : .joe.ie
