Posting this in case anyone needs it, as it has helped me. 🙂
TLDR; If you're looking for a job and see “family-like” and/or “fast-paced” in the job or company description, do not apply. Also, pay-rate is important, but it isn't worth your health and happiness.
Long story short, I am not in a position where I can afford life without a job, like most of us. Damn. With that said, I am fortunate to have gotten a job where I am actually very happy. I was reflecting on my old job and realized two red flags were right there in the job posting, yet still I applied. So, to anyone who is looking for a job or thinking about leaving their job for something else, please BOLO for:
“family-like” and “fast-paced” environment.
Family-like: You ever hear people being treated poorly – even abused – by family, and they finish their story with “but yanno, that's my mom so.” Or, “but it's family.” Yes, that is the exact gaslighting that will occur at these types of companies. They want you to feel like you're family, because we do anything for our families, right? Family is the most important thing. Family cares for you, wants what's best for you, so you return the favor.
Fast-paced: Do you enjoy shifting policies and procedures? How about being uncertain as to whether or not you're going to lunch on time, or at all? In fact, you will be worked so much, you won't even realize you missed lunch. It's a good thing you're a multitasker, because your workload will involve doing multiple things at once at any given moment.
After I quit that job and began looking for something else, I avoided any job that had those catchphrases in their description. It wasn't easy, in fact it was discouraging. Have a laugh: I saw a job listing that required a bachelor's degree for $12/hr. The market is shit, I know, but don't settle. Finally, my friend got me in with his job. I took a massive paycut – $6.50/hr to be exact but LET ME TELL YOU, It's worth it. Nothing “family like” or “fast paced” here. I am not being micromanaged, I am not expected to do more than my job title, I am not asked to stay late/work extra. Also, no forced company outings or events. It's exactly what work should be – no more than the 40 hrs I signed on for, no more than my job title states.
I hope some one reads this and can avoid being trapped into a soul-crushing gig at the expense of their mental/physical wellbeing. You deserve a job that allows you to live.
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