8 things I learnt while working in a toxic job

I once worked in a job where I left the office at 3 AM or even 6 AM, only to return before 9:30 AM—because if I didn’t, I’d lose half a day’s pay.

I ignored the red flags because I needed the money. Because people told me it was “normal.” Because I thought I had no choice.

That job nearly cost me my life.

Toxic workplaces don’t just drain your energy—they erode your health, confidence, and self-worth. And the longer you stay, the harder it becomes to leave.

Here are 8 things I learnt while working in a toxic job. I wish my younger self knew these. I hope that these will help young folks struggling in toxic jobs like I once did.

1. Just Because Overwork is Normalised, Doesn’t Mean It’s Normal

🚩 Toxic workplaces make you feel like exhaustion is a badge of honour. But working until 3 AM, sacrificing your health, or losing personal time is not a sign of dedication—it’s a sign of exploitation.

🔹 If your body is breaking down from stress, the workplace is the problem, not you.

2. Red Flags Don’t Turn Green

🚩 We often excuse toxic work cultures by thinking:
"It’ll get better."
"Maybe it’s just me."
"I need to prove myself first."

🔹 If a workplace glorifies burnout, lacks boundaries, and runs on fear, it’s unlikely to change. The longer you stay, the harder it is to leave.

3. Hustle Culture Rewards You—Until It Breaks You

🚩 I won awards for working insane hours. I was praised for my “commitment.”
🔹 But here’s the truth: toxic jobs reward you until you crash. Then, they replace you.
🔹 Hard work builds careers. Overwork destroys lives. Know the difference.

4. Not Every Workplace is Toxic

🚩 I once believed all workplaces demanded extreme hours and suffering. That’s how toxic jobs trap you—by making you think you have no better options.
🔹 But great workplaces do exist—ones that respect your time, well-being, and growth. The challenge is finding them, but they are out there.

5. Financial Responsibilities Make It Hard to Leave—But Staying Has a Cost Too

🚩 Many people stay in toxic jobs because of financial constraints (I did too).
🔹 But burnout, chronic stress, and health issues can also drain you financially in the long run.
🔹 If you can’t leave immediately, start small—network, build new skills, plan your exit. Even tiny steps add up.

6. Your Job is Not Your Identity

🚩 I once believed my worth was tied to my job performance. That’s a dangerous mindset.
🔹 Work is a part of life, but it is not life itself. You are more than your job title, paycheck, or workplace struggles.

7. Ask for Support—You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

🚩 Toxic jobs isolate you. They make you feel like you have to push through alone.
🔹 But support changes everything—whether it’s a mentor, a trusted colleague, a therapist, or even online communities.
🔹 Talking about your struggles doesn’t make you weak—it helps you find solutions, perspective, and the courage to make a change.

8. Your Hard Work Deserves Better

🚩 I told myself I had to stick it out—after all, I had worked hard through school, college, and business school to get here.
🔹 But no amount of past effort justifies staying in a place that harms your well-being.
🔹 You don’t have to "pay your dues" at the cost of your health.
🔹 Success isn’t about enduring suffering—it’s about finding a place where your skills and effort are valued without exploitation.

Have you ever stayed in a toxic job because you felt you "had to"? Let’s talk in the comments. ⬇️😊

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Are you seeking to create happiness at work? Do check The Happy Work Guide: 8 Steps to Freedom from Toxic Work.