I was just having a moment here at work that caused me to want to share a short story about how damaging toxic workplaces really can be.
(Writing on mobile, sorry for the format)
I, much like the rest of us, have been beat down by the majority of my previous workplaces. I've been taken advantage of, under paid or not paid at all, workplace violence. You name it. This obviously all takes its toll on any normal human being. You start to develop habits to help you cope or navigate your jobs. It could be being overly compliant with an employer or you begin to put more stress on yourself when faced with issues such as scheduling for appointments and such.
My direct reason for writing this is that with all my jobs and all the tools I created to help cope with the stresses of uncompromising workplaces I've created an extremely stressful place in my mind. So much so that it's caused me to have sever anxiety when faced with certain events that may cause change to my work schedule. I hate inconveniencing people.
This is a result of years of being shit on for having a life or needing time for life things.
I now find myself with an employer that takes amazing care of me. Provides all the time I could ever need or want and they aren't shy about reminding us to take care of ourselves. This is great and all but with my previous work history I still worry myself to the point of feeling sick.
I just had an instance of forgetting I had a car appointment this week and forgot to book the time. I panicked, called my wife and tried to make sure I had a whole plan set up before I talked to my foreman. I get it all prepped and call my boss. Tell him the plan as fast as I can and he stops me mind sentence. He said I sounded stressed and worried. I was. He then proceeded to remind me that I always seem to stress with this stuff. I do. He followed up with this.
“Listen man. I know you have probably had some really crummy jobs and bosses. We all have. But I want you to remember that, here at least, you're personal stuff is high priority and we will always do our best to accommodate your needs. Don't stress, you've got the time. Breathe. Love ya bud. “
FROM MY FOREMAN!
I know this is a one off case and not many employers care like this but the reason I wanted to share is to remind us that not everyone is out to get us and sometimes we can find good places. When we do, make it a two way street. I'll keep stressing about these types of things but only because I know these guys have my back .
Even in a sea of shit there are pools of clear water.
Sorry if this seems stupid. Just wanted to share a sliver of light with someone. Have a great day everyone!