Burning Bridges: Surviving the Hellish Clutches of Incompetent Bosses
I Was Attending a Funeral
Ever been in a job where you’re expected to work like a machine with no time off? Some bosses are tougher than a two-dollar steak, pushing unreasonable expectations. And while some jobs are a matter of life and death, there’s no excuse for being on call during a loved one’s funeral.
Take it from someone who experienced it firsthand; he was expected to respond to calls while attending his father-in-law’s funeral. It takes a saintly amount of patience not to tell that boss where to stick it.
Next: A nine-hour shift for no pay!
My Less Than 16 Hours of Maternity Leave
According to state laws, some companies offer up to six months of maternity leave. It’s not just about bonding with the baby; new moms need ample time to recover from childbirth. However, Nat’s employer expected her to return to work less than 16 hours after giving birth!

Talk about a harsh reality check. She fulfilled her duties, but not without expressing dissatisfaction to the boss. This insensitive request was a low blow for Nat.
Next: My work-life experience in tsunami-prone Japan.
Working Right After a Tsunami
Notorious for its devastating tsunamis, Japan has seen its people resiliently pick up the pieces of their lives after the wreckage. But who would consider opening a school a day after such a natural calamity? Molly’s preschool employer did.

Unsurprisingly, only two kids showed up. Molly’s boss displayed a shocking lack of empathy by being indifferent to her need to take a moment to recuperate after the trauma. It’s a miracle she didn’t give them a lesson in sarcasm.
Next: When my boss proved their height of insensitivity.
Just How Bad Can It Get?
Cancer, a ruthless disease, preys on thousands of individuals. Chemotherapy is a standard treatment that extends the patient’s life. However, chemo is an extensive process lasting from a few months to several years.

While some patients continue to work, others must take time off for treatment. Unfortunately, not all bosses understand this. This individual got lambasted for taking every other Friday off for chemo. Seriously, is this boss a robot with a missing empathy chip?
Next: Trust me, you don’t want your ex-partner stalking you!
I was Stalked by My Ex-Boyfriend
Being stalked isn’t a situation anyone wants to be in, especially by an ex-partner. Some stalkers aim to creep you out, while others aim to inflict harm or misery. Imagine having a shadow that follows you everywhere, even in the workplace.

It’s bound to take a toll on anyone’s well-being. So, when this woman’s ex-boyfriend began stalking her, she expected her manager to intervene. However, instead of being supportive, her employer refused to let her go to the back until the stalker left.
Next: Natural disasters cost me for factors beyond my control.
My Office Literally Broke into Pieces
Natural disasters are an unwelcome spanner in the works. One might be unable to work altogether if their workplace is destroyed or communication systems go offline. After such an event, taking a few days off is a no-brainer.

However, when Jenn’s work building crumbled during an earthquake, her employer reacted harshly. The employer tried to dock her pay for taking an unauthorized day off. What did they expect when there was nowhere to show up, and the communication systems were down?
Next: It turns out pneumonia isn’t good enough reason to skip work.
My Downright Cold-Blooded Superior
When one’s struck with a cold, working and maintaining productivity with minimal time off is still feasible. However, when a severe illness like pneumonia results in a hospital visit, one might need extended time off from work to recover. The most crucial thing is to heal, right?

Well, not according to Annie’s employer. The comic shop owner still demanded she comes in the next day. It’s a wonder she even returned to the workplace with a callous boss who showed.
Next: When the student’s well-being outweighed my health concerns.
Risking My Life as a Substitute Teacher
Teaching is tough, but subbing is a whole different challenge. One doesn’t know the students, and they don’t know you, either. Subbing for a 7th-grade class is challenging as the kids are undergoing all sorts of changes.

Amy’s subbing experience was a nightmare when an emotional student threw a chair at her—and she was seven months pregnant! But that’s not all; the vice principal sent the kid back to class, claiming he was fine. Could it get any worse?
Next: There’s nothing musical about working in this music store.
My Manager Wouldn’t Allow Coats and Scarves
Working at a music store is a dream job for any music lover, but not when the heat goes off in winter. The worst is a temperature drop below 50 degrees, making it feel like working outside instead of in a store.

To add insult to injury, the boss won’t even let employees wear winter accessories to keep warm. What would you do if things turned unmusical? It’s a good thing the Beatles weren’t around to write a song about this cold-hearted boss.
Next: This is when I knew it was time to resign.
My Car Was Dangling By A Thread
Asking to leave work early feels like walking on eggshells, but sometimes one just has to do it. A car accident causes immense stress and upheaval, even if one comes out relatively unscathed. It’s essential to seek medical attention and rest.

Unfortunately, this Twitter user’s boss didn’t get the memo. After a major car accident, her employer still expected her to clock in for a full day’s work. Let’s hope she found a job that values her well-being more.
Next: I never knew teaching was this dangerous!
A Student Tried to Stab Me in The Neck
Tutoring is a great way to help students learn and grow, but sometimes the job comes with unexpected challenges. For Dominic, it was nearly being attacked by a student. When he reported the incident, he was met with laughter and told to return to the classroom.

Not exactly the response one wants when one is in danger! Dominic moved to China after that. We’re unsure if it was for the dumplings or to escape unruly students, but we wish him the best.
Next: I flooded my clients with calls just like my storefront.
Flooded or Not, Work Must Go On
Fancy working at a comic store where imagination runs rampant? Life is no fairytale. Weathering a storm is tricky. Although if one dwells in a stormy area, one often muddles through.

Nevertheless, when an establishment is awash after a monstrous downpour, hoping that employees or patrons will keep the show on the road is laughable. Kelley had to contend with this, and her boss was bewildered about the lack of sales. Oh, the irony!
Next: Even the fire damage wasn’t enough to keep us from operating.
Half Burned, Half Operational
A restaurant losing a day’s worth of customers is bad news. But it’s much better than bursting into flames thanks to oils, gas stoves, and the potential for fiery accidents. That’s why many establishments take extreme precautions to avoid mishaps.

Unfortunately, if disaster strikes and the place goes up in smoke, the doors usually close until repairs are finished. But not for Steph’s restaurant, as after catching fire, their boss kept them running with only half the place operating.
Next: How was my colleague to learn by wrongfully punishing me?
I Had a Landline Phone Thrown at Me
Mistakes are expensive life lessons. Without them, how would we ever learn? We’re all humans, prone to mistakes, but sometimes they are blessings in disguise. But how people react to blunders makes all the difference.

Take accounting, for example, where even one number can be costly. This unlucky soul had a phone hurled at them by their boss for a mistake they didn’t even make. Instead of gaining wisdom, they learned that their boss was a first-rate jerk.
Next: I don’t have to be like my boss to raise my kid right!
My Boss Couldn’t Understand My Breastfeeding Choice
Breastfeeding is a touchy topic. Some swear by it, while others opt for formula. Either way, the decision is personal and no one else’s business. Milk or formula, what matters is respecting each other’s choices.

Though breastfeeding ignites heated debates, it’s no excuse for rude words. Decisions about our children and bodies should be respected, even if they don’t align with others’ opinions. After all, it takes a village to raise a child.
Next: We don’t have an option for sick leave here!
My Boss’ Priorities Are Warped
PTSD is no joke, and it is triggered by a variety of events. It’s a serious condition that requires medication and therapy. Unfortunately, it’s often invisible to others, making it hard to spot.

One person went home, but not everyone was understanding. While one manager showed compassion, another put profits over people, insisting that no one should leave work if they’re not physically ill. It’s enough to give one PTSD.
Next: I had to work even in my hospital bed.
My Boss Called A Worker Who Was In Hospital
Some bosses expect employees to be available 24/7. If you’re a workaholic, that might be fine, but everyone needs time to recharge, especially in the hospital. Unfortunately, not all bosses are understanding.

One boss kept calling his administrative assistant while she was in the hospital. She probably didn’t feel comfortable saying no, but who wants to think about work when they’re trying to recover from a heart attack? It’s enough to make anyone’s blood boil.
Next: Why should I even continue working here after this great loss?
Avoidable Work-Related Miscarriage
We all need to work to make ends meet and enjoy life, but some employers forget that their employees are human beings with feelings. Take Maisha, for example, who experienced a miscarriage while on holiday. Her off day from work, mark you!

Instead of showing compassion, her employer made her feel guilty for something beyond her control. It’s a cruel and heartless attitude that no one should endure. Good for her for quitting that job and finding a workplace that respects her.
Next: Luckily, I took off before I could sink deep.
Working Around a Sinkhole
Working at a bakery is a sweet gig, but having a boss with no regard for safety sours the experience. This guy got out just in time, as a sinkhole opened up in the bakery kitchen just a month after leaving.

Sinkholes are a severe problem, often caused by natural factors like soil erosion or underground water flow. It’s not something you want to “workaround” when you’re trying to bake delicious treats.
Next: When is much too much, especially from a boss?
My Boss Told Me My Man Would Leave Me
Hysterectomy—it’s not just the removal of the womb; it’s the removal of a woman’s femininity, right? Wrong! Many women feel this way, but that’s not true. A hysterectomy is a life-saving surgery for some women who suffer painful conditions such as endometriosis and fibroids.

It’s not about losing value as a woman; it’s about valuing one’s body and taking care of it. So, don’t let anyone, not even an overbearing boss, tell you otherwise! This one went beyond the boundaries.
Next: I got written up as late, even though I arrived covered in bruises and blood.
A Cop Drove Me to Work
Biking to work is a great way to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors before work. But trucks are dangerous to cyclists. In case of a collision, don’t head to the office; head to the emergency room!

Unfortunately, one cyclist learned this the hard way. After getting hit by a truck, they still showed up to work accompanied by police, only to get written up for being late. What an inconsiderate boss! Talk about a crummy day!
Next: Nothing moves my father, not even a near-death experience.
When My Hair Got Caught in a Drill
Working on a construction site is a hair-raising experience, quite literally. Safety is a top priority, but sometimes common sense goes out the window. One worker found out when their hair got snagged by a hammer drill, resulting in a major haircut.

To add insult to injury, their own father, who was managing the site, expected them to shake it off and return to work. What kind of danger must one be in to get pity from their father? Talk about a bad hair day!
Next: When being “too aggressive” made my male co-workers uncomfortable.
I Was Told To Be Less Aggressive
Gone are the days when women were relegated to less than 30% of the workforce, but don’t be fooled; gender biases still lurk in modern workplaces. As of 2019, women’s participation rose to 57.4%, yet the shadow of gender prejudice looms. After all, intelligence, capability, competence, and creativity know no gender.

By ditching antiquated gender stereotypes, we unlock a treasure trove of diverse perspectives and innovative ideas. Let’s embrace positive change, no matter who brings it to the table. These male co-workers need to take a leaf.
Next: When poor planning almost made a client lose their life.
We Had No Aircon On The Hottest Day
Each year, heat records get shattered like a piñata at a birthday party. To brace for sizzling days, offices arm themselves with air conditioning, hydration, and shade. But not this one. An ex-employee spilled the tea that the store had no AC on a record scorcher.

The heatwave melted the merchandise into colorful blobs, and clients almost fainted. Ironically, a store selling bath bombs, intended to calm the nerves, ended up causing so much turmoil.
Next: I thought I was having a stroke!
All My Customers Had One Eye
Anyone who’s ever had a migraine knows they’re not just a bad headache; they’re like a tiny gremlin hammering away at the skull. With nausea, light sensitivity, and sound intolerance, it’s a party one doesn’t want to be invited to. But some bosses don’t get it!

This boss expected their employee to operate the register despite a raging migraine. How she managed to keep it together is anyone’s guess, but we hope she bid that job adieu faster than anyone can say “ibuprofen.”
Next: Don’t re-train me to be nice to customers when I can’t talk!
My Oral Surgery Didn’t Matter
Dental work is about as fun as a migraine and often leaves one unable to communicate without drooling like a St. Bernard. Surgery calls for some R&R, especially if one’s job entails customer service.

The store owner crashed into town, demanding an emergency meeting and employee training session. Our poor protagonist had to attend, mute and in pain, with a mouth full of gauze. Talk about putting one’s money where one’s mouth isn’t.
Next: No death warrants leave of absence in my boss’ vocabulary.
I Was Attending a Funeral
Ever been in a job where you’re expected to work like a machine with no time off? Some bosses are tougher than a two-dollar steak, pushing unreasonable expectations. And while some jobs are a matter of life and death, there’s no excuse for being on call during a loved one’s funeral.

Take it from someone who experienced it firsthand; he was expected to respond to calls while attending his father-in-law’s funeral. It takes a saintly amount of patience not to tell that boss where to stick it.
Next: A nine-hour shift for no pay!
Donkey’s Work with No Pay
Starting a new job feels like stepping into the lion’s den. One’s trying to learn new processes, meet new people, and not mess up too badly. But something one shouldn’t have to worry about is getting paid! In most cases, someone starts earning money the moment they clock in.

Unfortunately, some employers think they can cheat their workers out of their fair pay. Just ask Emmeline, who endured a first day at a café with no breaks, no food, and, worst of all, no pay.
Next: When my boss has no filter in the office!
Laying It Bare
Women know all too well the sinking feeling of hearing inappropriate comments from their male colleagues or bosses. While we’ve come a long way, a few bad apples still need to get the memo. This person’s boss must have missed the memo entirely and decided to utter these unsavory words.

Luckily, more workplaces are investing in educating their workers on proper behavior. But let’s remember that real change requires everyone’s efforts. We need to strive for a better work environment to create a better society.
Next: A high-stakes game of restaurant roulette.
Ignoring The Elephant In The Room
Working in a restaurant is a pressure-cooker environment. Customer demands, hot food, and tight quarters create a perfect storm of stress that makes anyone lose their cool. But if you think that’s bad, check out this tweet.

Imagine the line cook having a heart attack during the dinner rush. You’d think the whole place would shut down. Nope. This person’s manager wanted them to keep working the front while CPR was being administered in the kitchen! Talk about a high-stakes game of restaurant roulette.
Next: I got sent to the emergency room.
I Was Admitted To The Cardiac Unit
Whether a night owl or an early bird, working the night shift is a nightmare for one’s health, particularly sleep. When the sleep cycle is disrupted, it leads to everything from indigestion to fainting.

Everyone needs rest to function properly in daily life and on the job. But when this person’s sleep-deprived body finally gave in, and they had to go to the hospital mid-shift, they got written up for not working at least half of their shift.
Next: I wasn’t supposed to go into labor on my due date.
Unconventional Form of Labor
It’s hard to believe that in the 21st century, some managers still think it’s appropriate to criticize their employees for giving birth.

Imagine juggling the excitement and stress of a new pregnancy with work pressures, only to be told you “dropped the ball” while in labor. This incident highlights a larger issue: the continued discrimination women face in the workplace. But remember, being a mom doesn’t mean one can’t be a boss too!”
Next: Going old-school just to make things work in difficult times.
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