Introduction

A distressing post on Reddit has shed light on the harsh realities faced by a Singaporean employee working in the media advertising industry, who has taken to the platform seeking advice on whether she should stay at her job for a 13th-month bonus or prioritize her mental health by quitting.

The Workplace Environment

In her candid confession shared on r/askSingapore, she detailed the intense stress emanating from her workplace, primarily due to a micromanaging superior who has created a turbulent, gaslighting environment. “We’re walking on eggshells due to management's volatile behavior,” she lamented.

Frustrations and Challenges

Her frustrations didn’t stop at micromanagement; she expressed dismay over workplace politics and the uncertainty surrounding a new finance chief's approach to performance bonuses, suggesting they might not be favorable. Adding to her burdens, the employee shared her frustrations about being pushed into responsibilities beyond her expertise, a common plight in many industries that leads to burnout.

The Dilemma: Bonus or Mental Health?

“It’s been tough, especially since I only joined mid-year,” she explained, noting that if she stays until December, she will only receive a prorated bonus due to her limited tenure. “If I decide to resist the urge to quit, I’ll just be waiting all year until next December for my bonuses,” she lamented.

Physical Impact of Work Stress

A shocking admission followed: her grueling work schedule has led to a significant weight loss during her time there, with her previously working hours stretching from 10 AM to as late as 3 AM on a daily basis. “This job cost me my health. I lost over 40kg!” she revealed, illustrating the detrimental physical impact of prolonged stress and overwork.

Community Reactions and Advice

Reddit users quickly rallied, offering mixed opinions. Some urged caution, advising her to stay put until after the performance bonus payout in the first quarter of the following year, while others were more empathetic to her plight and advocated for her mental well-being. “No salary is worth your health. If you can manage it, prioritize your well-being and leave that toxic environment,” one commenter urged.

Conclusion

As this situation raises awareness about workplace culture and the need for balance between mental health and job security, many are left wondering how common such experiences are in corporate environments in Singapore and beyond. The dialog continues to emphasize the importance of prioritizing mental well-being over financial incentives in what can often be a challenging job market.

Final Reflection

As employees navigate these difficult decisions, the question lingers: Is it worth sacrificing your peace of mind for the promise of a bonus?