#MentalHealthMatters #WorkLifeBalance #CareerAdvice
Hey folks! 🌟
I’m in need of some advice, and I’d love to hear your thoughts. So here’s the situation: I’ve been working as a recruiter for a major firm for almost three years. Recently, I took two days off to focus on my mental health—something I think we all know is super important. However, when I chatted with my boss, he mentioned it didn’t sit well with the higher-ups, especially during our busy season. 😟
Now, I totally get that timing is everything, but I can’t help but feel a bit uneasy. Here are some of the pain points I’m grappling with:
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Perception vs. Reality: Taking time off, especially during busy periods, can sometimes be seen as slacking off, even if it’s for legitimate reasons like mental health. This can create tension and anxieties.
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Job Security: The feeling of being "under a microscope" is tough. It makes you question whether staying loyal to a company is worth the stress it brings.
- Balancing Act: I pride myself on being committed and not frequently taking days off. But at what point does that commitment become a disadvantage?
So, I’m really at a crossroads here. Should I continue to push through and maintain my dedication, or is it time to explore new opportunities where mental health is more valued? 🤔
Possible Solutions I’m Considering:
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Open Communication: I could try having a more in-depth conversation with my boss about mental health policies and how we can navigate this better as a team.
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Explore New Roles: Start exploring job options that prioritize employee well-being and where I can find a supportive work environment.
- Self-Care: Continue prioritizing my mental health, regardless of workplace pressures.
Now I’d love to hear from you! Have you ever faced a similar situation? What did you do? Any tips on how to balance career obligations with personal well-being? Let’s chat about it! 💬
Looking forward to your insights!
What you experienced is pretty much why everyone leaves agency for inhouse. Nothing is ever enough. And the bottom line of leadership is the only thing that matters. Not gonna lie your post makes it sound so much like Aerotek it’s not even funny
It sounds like a very toxic environment!
You haven’t taken a vacation and took 2 days off? Apparently, they don’t understand work like balance and creating a healthy environment for its employees. You need to push back a little and provide data of what you accomplished so far there and that 2 days for mental health is ok. I would continue working but definitely start looking. In-house is amazing, but there are better agencies or there that will treat you right. Good luck!
Agency is all about “what have you done for me lately” unfortunately and most Agency leaders I’ve met, both large and small agencies, look at income figures 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, and then worry about the employees afterwards.
Depending on what agency you’re at, and what industry you primarily work in, you might want to continue to keep your head down if you can for the foreseeable future due to macroeconomic conditions.
One vacation in three years? You should look for a job regardless. That’s fucked up.
I remember my first real vacation after leaving agency to go in house and thinking “why the hell did I not do this sooner?!”
There is no reason you should be made to feel guilty about taking time off. My advice is to find a place that values you and your personal time.
I’ve never done agency work … but have you seen that meme about Simone Biles where taking time for your mental heath means you come back stronger?
I wouldn’t grind through for an employer where you’ve only had 1 vacation in THREE years. Look for a better gig.