SINGAPORE: A Tough Decision

Walking away from a lucrative S$200,000-a-year job might seem illogical to many, yet one Singaporean is seriously contemplating this decision due to a severely toxic work environment created by his boss.

The Employee's Story

In a recent post on the r/askSingapore subreddit, this employee shared his struggle, revealing that he has dedicated five years to a multinational corporation (MNC), focusing on operations across the Asia-Pacific region and enjoying otherwise positive relationships with colleagues. However, the atmosphere has drastically changed due to his superior's behavior, which has generated overwhelming stress and a negative impact on his work-life balance.

"My boss frequently sends emails or makes calls at unreasonable hours, like midnight or even 5 am, for matters that don’t require immediate attention," he explained. This invasive approach to management not only disrupts his personal life but has also led him to feel demoralized and undervalued through personal attacks from his superior. Additionally, he has been assigned a project he perceives as set up for failure due to various glaring indicators of impending issues.

Seeking Advice

Faced with this predicament, he turned to the Reddit community for advice, questioning, “Should I resign now or wait to be let go?” The user also mentioned concerns regarding current market conditions, speculating that he might face a pay cut of 30-40% in case he chooses to leave.

"I understand the financial implications, but I need to prioritize my well-being," he noted, echoing a sentiment many professionals face when overwhelmed by workplace toxicity.

Reddit Community Responses

The Reddit discussion provided a mix of perspectives. Many users urged him to take the leap and resign, emphasizing that no amount of money is worth sacrificing mental health. One commenter suggested waiting until he receives his bonus before leaving, while also documenting the problematic behaviors he’s endured for potential future reference. "Remember, you can't take your wealth with you when you’re gone. Your health comes first," read one poignant reply.

Others suggested considering alternatives first, such as looking for internal transfer opportunities within the company. "If you can find a position in another department, you might escape your toxic boss while keeping your salary and colleagues," one user advised.

Signs of a Toxic Work Environment

Evaluating if it’s the right time to leave a job can be challenging, but there are clear signs that signal a toxic work environment:

1. Constant Exhaustion

A job should inspire and motivate you. If it leaves you feeling drained, it might be time to reconsider your position.

2. No Breaks

If your employer expects you to be on call around the clock without proper breaks, this is a significant warning sign. Everyone needs time to recharge.

3. Harsh Feedback

Constructive criticism is essential for growth, but if you find yourself constantly bombarded with harsh feedback, it could be a sign of a toxic culture.

4. Ignored Well-being

If your physical or mental health is consistently sacrificed for work, it’s crucial to take a step back and assess your future in that role.

5. Blame Shifting

If you find yourself being blamed for all mistakes due to being the newest or most junior member, it indicates a lack of accountability in the workplace.

Final Thoughts

It's important to take stock of your circumstances and weigh both options carefully—whether one should tender their resignation or wait for a resolution. Ultimately, no job is worth compromising one's well-being.