A candid post by an Indian professional on Reddit has reignited discussions around workplace toxicity, unrealistic deadlines, and the human cost of hustle culture, striking a chord with employees across sectors.
The user described a distressing incident at work where they struggled to breathe just minutes before the end of the workday. Instead of being encouraged to seek immediate medical help, they were repeatedly reminded about deadlines. “I honestly couldn’t breathe. It was literally five minutes from winding up work,” the user wrote.
‘Deadlines mattered more than health’
According to the post, when the user informed a colleague about needing to see a doctor, they were advised to update their manager. The response from the boss, however, left them shaken. “But we have deadlines. Take rest and do it early morning tomorrow,” the manager reportedly said.
What added to the distress was the claim that the deadline itself was assigned only after the employee had already communicated their inability to continue working, making them feel unheard and dehumanised.
‘Employees are humans, not machines’
The post resonated deeply as the user reflected on a reality many professionals silently endure. “Sometimes I feel my boss does not understand that employees are humans. That they can genuinely be sick, because they aren’t machines,” they wrote, clarifying that the post was a moment of venting born out of exhaustion and frustration.
The user concluded with a sentiment that many found relatable: “Lucky are those who have understanding bosses who genuinely care for their employees first.”
Social media reacts: ‘Health over hustle’
The post quickly drew a wave of responses from fellow professionals, many sharing similar experiences from high-pressure corporate environments. One commenter pointed out the paradox of toxic urgency, noting that if deadlines were truly that critical, employers would not risk burning out or losing trained staff, given the time it takes to onboard replacements.
Another user blamed systemic pressure, saying workplace toxicity often flows from the top, driven by unrealistic expectations and long work-hour cultures. Several others urged the original poster to prioritise their well-being. “Health over hustle. No point earning more if you’re not fit to enjoy it,” one response read.
A wider conversation
The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns around employee well-being, work-life balance, and the need for empathetic leadership in Indian workplaces. As conversations around burnout and mental health gain momentum, many believe such stories reflect not isolated incidents, but a deeper cultural issue that organisations must address.