Hard work or Hard sa work?

Dear KNOT,

Ako po si Randy, 24 years old, at newly hired sa trabaho. Being an employee is very difficult and tiresome. Kinakailangan mong mag-adjust at dapat obedient ka sa boss mo. They say na lucky na raw kami masyado dahil may work kami. But do we always need to be obedient?

My boss is very dedicated sa work. She’s a good mentor. Pero may mga times na feeling ko toxic na masyado, na kahit Saturday and Sunday ay may work-related tasks kaming ginagawa. She is not forcing us, pero walang choice kasi awkward naman kung hindi tutulong.

I remembered that Jesus was also admired by his followers because of his works. Jesus himself is a good leader, pero sa sitwasyon ko ngayon, ano ba ang dapat kong gawin? Should I always follow orders from my boss?

Nagmamahal,

Randy

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Dear Randy,

I wish you mentioned what type of work you do.

Usually newly hired employees show their “best foot forward” especially if they do not have a permanent status yet. And by the time they get a permanent status they relax a little bit.

Yes, in whatever workplace you are, there will always be adjustments you have to undergo. Adjustment with the assigned tasks, with co-employees, working conditions, and of course with your boss. You feel your way around.

There are labor laws that serve as guide for everyone, both employer and employee. If you have a contract, working hours and days must be stipulated therein, including working on weekends. If beyond working hours, you must be paid overtime.

Do we always need to be obedient to the boss? You have to weigh and discern whatever your boss asks you to do. Blind obedience is a no-no especially if you don’t feel good at what the boss asks you to do. You have the right to refuse especially if it is against the law. In your case it seems you feel guilty for not helping the boss who works even on weekends. It is her choice to do so. Since you are not forced to do the same, the decision lies in you and you chose to help her. If you feel that doing so is already “toxic”, this is sending the message that you have to do something for your peace of mind. Are you trying to impress the boss that you are likewise as dedicated and hardworking as she is? Review your priorities especially if you have a family. You owe them your time, too.

God bless you.

DJ Cheng and Ate Emily

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