I work for an organisation that is rather notorious for overworking employees. We're on salary, no union, and not entitled to any overtime pay whatsoever. And yes, this is perfectly legal. I've done stretches working 16-20 hours daily for 30-40 days at a time. Mind you, this was in the late aughts, when I was young and had the energy; but I still have to surge from time to time, working 80 hour weeks for months to plan/execture certain specific events.
I've had multiple burnouts just in the last 2 years alone. I do, however, make a very good salary (6 figures) and so it is worth it.
I just moved to a new section, and had my first meeting with my new supervisor. Here's how it went:
Me: I prefer 7-3 instead of 8-4, to beat traffic on the bridge.
Boss: Okay
Me: You have any issues if I want to go to the gym on my lunch break?
Boss: Actually….
Me: Because I really need to get into shape–
Boss: Let me stop you there. I'm going to give you your projects, and not micromanage your hours. If you want to go to the gym, leave early, go to appointments, do whatever you need. Deliver on deadline, and I will never question you.
Me:…
Boss: And one more thing. If the projects I assign you are starting to affect your work/life balance, you need to tell me immediately so we can readjust.
Me: pinching myself
Boss: By the way, we just got word from headquarters – you're promoted next year, and I headhunted you to take over my position.
I feel like I'm dreaming. I'm still in abject shock. But I wanted to share that some of the culture change is actually happening out there.