I am 46 years old and because I was a college dropout, I've been working FT since 1995. I went back part time and finished a bachelor's and masters degree.
I've had two good careers, and I am well regarded at work.
But for 27 years now, it's been a series of jobs where we are “going to have to tighten our belts, do more with less, and let this crisis be an opportunity.”
I am so done. I think the only way off this haunted carnival train is to start my own business. I have enough skills to be a solo freelancer/consultant. I've also been day trading for three years, and I'm finally gaining some traction there (though it will be another year at this rate before I earn back the $ I lost while learning to day trade).
But no fucking way am I doing this for 20 more years. I don't need to be a millionaire, I just don't want to be anyone else's budget line item.
Oh, great news — im up for a promotion next year (after 6 years here) that will bump my salary from $55k to $60k.
Work is a joke.
Finally, to end on an up note. I have the best family. I have a roof over my head and our bills are paid because we built – with help! — a life slightly beneath our means.
For the young people in this sub working shit jobs for mean idiots – it can and does get better. I am treated with respect and dignity by the people interact with day to day. But the whole system is fucked and as far as I know the only ways out for what used to be called the middle class or working class is to join a strong union or find a way to work for yourself.
Peace. And, you know that manager you have? Fuck that guy.