Is there such a thing as a "dream job," or is it just a myth? Many people aspire to work for a company that values and supports them, but even if the company is exceptional, their superior might be the polar opposite. When that occurs, going to work every day is dreadful. Employers require reliable and diligent staff as much as employees require a compassionate employer who caters to their needs.

Regrettably, locating such a boss is tricky, as numerous anecdotes reveal. For most employers, the bottom line is the most important, and they are unconcerned about one's personal life or well-being. These Twitter users recounted their experiences of heartless employers who expected them to work despite personal issues.

Next: How long is maternity leave usually?

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.

I Had To Work During A Hectic Snowstorm

When it comes to extreme weather, snowstorms really freeze up one's workday. Slippery roads and power outages make a day at the office seem impossible. Anna knows this all too well, as she worked through a power outage.

With no registers to process transactions, she had to go old school and write down all the details by hand. And when power was restored, her boss asked her to enter everything manually. Is this what's called a blizzard of paperwork?

Next: Cleaning public restrooms without gloves.

I Did It Because I Was Only A Teen

Working as a janitor at an amusement park may be a blast, but it is not all roller coasters and cotton candy. It's more like plungers and cleaning supplies. One gets the messiest parts, like scrubbing toilets and picking up after thousands of people.

And if one's manager is anything like the one in this story, they might even make a teenager work without gloves. Yikes! Let's hope those janitors have strong stomachs.

Next: She accused my of bleeding deliberatley.

Adding Insult To Injury

Picture this: One is working in a kitchen in a frenzy of knives, fire, and flying ingredients. In this chaos, accidents happen, from cuts to burns to fires. And when they do, the last thing anyone wants is their boss accusing them of slacking off.

But that's exactly what happened to one unlucky chef who cut themselves on the job. Rather than let the injury ruin people's meals, they moved away from the food station, only to be yelled at by their boss.

Next: I'm glad my retail days are over.

Customers Were Fainting

Working in retail is a nightmare with a clueless boss. Take it from this woman who shares her priceless story from working part-time at a department store. While many think working in retail is easy, this story proves otherwise.

Imagine working in a store filled with toxic fumes from chemicals because the boss decided to keep the store open during the process. Unsurprisingly, some customers fainted, leaving the staff to deal with the mess.

Next: I was struggling to breathe.

My Asthma Was Affecting Me

A common custom in most workplaces is to demand a physician's certificate if an employee misses more than a few days. This guarantees payment for being unwell at home and not just pretending to be ill.

However, when Lucy was informed she had bronchitis and presented a doctor's note, her boss was far from empathetic. Rather than showing compassion, her boss threatened to terminate her if she didn't report to work despite her illness. Some people are unfit for leadership roles.

Next: I dropped a scorching fry basket on my hand.

It Was Small But Nasty

Many of us have had gigs like scooping ice cream or flipping burgers in our teens. Unfortunately, as fresh-faced younglings entering the workforce, we're not always aware of our rights, and employers frequently exploit that naivety.

However cautious one is, mishaps occur in the kitchen with perilously sizzling pans and sharp blades. One woman recounts her time working at Burger King as a teen. When she accidentally burned her hand by dropping a basket of fries, her boss responded by making her wash dishes.

Next: My boss kept us working despite ongoing demolitions.

Our Computer Screens Were Jumping

Anyone in the construction industry knows that demolishing buildings is risky. But if not, it's mesmerizing to witness a structure being reduced to rubble. Multiple signs at every construction site warn passersby to keep clear.

However, if someone works next to a demolition site, as Marie did, productivity takes a hit due to the deafening noise and grime. Despite the disruption, her employer insisted they continue working.

Next: I was made to sit in the office despite the fire on site.

Working with Fire on Site

Fire safety is crucial knowledge we learn in school, simulating evacuation scenarios and equipping ourselves with survival tips for blazing emergencies. Safety protocols in workplaces mandate visible escape routes to avoid untoward mishaps.

However, some employers fail to adhere to these laws, putting their staff in peril. Case in point: this person got stuck in their office during a raging inferno. Legal action may ensue if any employee wants to grill the company for such a lapse in safety measures.

Next: The bathrooms got gross fast with no running water.

400 People, No Water For 5 Hours

Ah, running water—the everyday luxury we often take for granted. Imagine a day without it—no flushing, hand-washing, or hydration. Now imagine an entire office grappling with the same conundrum. A building of 400 people!

Without water, it's anarchy in the workplace. Refusing to grant a paid day off, they chose to gamble with their staff's basic needs. Hoping their employees would flee to avoid having to pay, they forgot one thing: human resilience.

Next: My boss' likely mantra is "Cut or no cut, the show must go on!"

Duct Tape To Solve My Cut

Accidents are inevitable. From minor scrapes to major wounds, the road to recovery is paved with cleaning, ice, and rest. But when the damage is more severe, medical attention is crucial.

Unfortunately, not all bosses see it that way. Case in point: this film crew member whose finger was sliced down to the bone. Their boss? No big deal—just slap on some duct tape and keep filming. Now this is what we call showbiz resilience!

Next: My superior felt we needed no breaks.

We Got Carbon Monoxide Poisoning!

The chemicals we encounter during cleaning, design, and reconstruction are hazardous to our health. When dining out, cooking gas and cleaning products release toxic fumes that can cause harm if inhaled. Imagine working in a restaurant where the range hood was cleaned while the grill was still on.

The result? Carbon monoxide poisoning. That's what this person experienced. But the boss wasn't pleased, yelling about too many breaks. Sometimes taking a breath of fresh air is a breath of life!

Next: Throwing up blood didn't convince my boss for a day off!

I Had To Run To A Sink During My Shift

Working at a dairy farm isn't for the faint of heart. Milking cows and cleaning up after them is demanding, and even with the best sanitation practices, one can still get sick. If someone falls ill, they must stay away from the farm to prevent spreading the infection.

One worker was told to continue working while vomiting blood! Remember, milk it for what it's worth, but not at the expense of your health!

Next: I was asked if my grandmother's burial was important to my work.

How Is A Funaral Not Important?

Death is as certain as taxes, but losing a loved one is never easy. Grandparents, with their wisdom and love, have a unique place in our hearts. The grief that follows their passing is excruciating. To heal, one needs time to mourn and accept the loss.

But some companies are as empathetic as rocks. Bereavement leave is a right, but the boss wasn't compassionate. They were even asked about the importance of their grandmother's burial to their work.

Next: My manager was convinced I faked my collapse and blackout.

My Manager Remains Skeptical

Being stuck in a nine-to-five job is as fun as watching paint dry. Making up an excuse to skip work lands one in hot water. But when a genuine health issue arises and the manager remains unconvinced, it's like being caught between a rock and a hard place.

One person's blackout at work led to an ambulance ride and an unsympathetic manager showing up at the hospital. If only they knew that blackouts are not just excuses but are signs of underlying medical issues.

Next: The boss's sick puppy is more important than my grandfather's health.

A Sick Puppy Comes First

Asking for a day off should be a piece of cake, right? Wrong! Sometimes, employers are as considerate as a bear in hibernation. Working in a restaurant is a pressure cooker, and requesting time off could trigger the boss's "inconsiderate" button.

This employee's attempt to visit their ailing grandfather got nixed because the boss's pooch had a tummy ache. Newsflash: pets are important, but so are employees. The boss should consider a dog daycare.

Next: Concussion is bad, but concussion at a daycare!

Someone Else Was Out Sick So My Concussion Didn't Matter

Working at daycare is like playing with fire—sometimes it's all fun and games, and sometimes one can get burned. Kids are a handful, and not everyone is cut out for the job. Taking care of kids means dodging hits, bites, and flying objects daily.

One person even got a concussion on the job but was told to suck it up and stay till the end of the day. Apparently, caring for children's safety doesn't include the caregivers.

Next: Forced to work through pain caused by my tumor.

I Had To Call An Ambulance

Taking a sick day is a minefield, especially if one's sick as often as a chameleon changes colors. While some folks dodge work by faking sickness, others drag themselves to work, infecting the whole office and making the workplace a petri dish of germs.

Balance is key, but all bets are off when one has a medical condition like a tumor. One person was threatened with termination for taking too many sick days, even though their boss knew about the tumor.

Next: "Will your family visit undead him?"

I Broke Down In Tears Every Time I Breathed

Losing a loved one to suicide is an unimaginable pain that leaves families shattered. The unanswered questions and the guilt of not being able to prevent it haunt them forever. But some people seem to have a gift for adding insult to injury.

When Chachi's uncle took his own life, her manager's heartless quip, "what good is that going to do, undead him?" made us wonder if empathy is a dying art. How can people be so insensitive to others' grief?

Next: No amount of requests would convince my boss for a bathroom break.

Denying Nature's Call

Fresh out of college, this employee landed a sales job more like a call center, where everyone was  expected to be glued to their desks and phones. To add insult to injury, they were given a "bathroom request" button on their computers to click whenever nature called.

But the chances of getting permission to go were about as high as winning the lottery. Sadly, this unsympathetic manager often denied the requests, leaving everyone crossing their legs and praying for a miracle. Nature's call is crucial to life!

Next: My boss refused to learn my name, choosing to demean me.

Demeaning "Intern" Reference

Studies show that 25% of interns report experiencing bullying at work, with verbal abuse being the most common form. Most perpetrators are supervisors or senior colleagues, and the effects of bullying leads to mental health issues, lower job satisfaction, and decreased motivation.

This PR firm intern felt demeaned as their boss kept referring to them as "intern" instead of learning even one of their name for reference. When a chance became available for them to become full-time employee, they gleefully declined the offer.

Next: You're not fit enough to answer that question!

Did You Just Shush Me?

Every sound organization has clear communication guidelines that guide its operations. Similarly, employee engagement is defined in such a way that people engage freely. Well, only some companies have that order. One employee had to find out the hard way.

In their attempt to answer a question from their boss's superior, with whom they had an excellent working rapport, they were rudely stopped. The person's boss placed their hands in front of their face, silencing them before answering the question.

Next: My boss scoffed at my orientation by harassing me.

Things Went South

The age-old harassment of intimacy at work never seems to go away, even in the modern world. Sadly, the vice has crossed over to people's orientations, as this innocent female employee found out. Once her boss (a woman) found out that she was a lesbian, things went south.

Despite declaring being "happily" married, the boss kept making unwelcome and cringe-worthy advances at the employee, who was clearly uncomfortable. Without a doubt, the advances made the person's work conditions miserable, especially whenever the boss was around.

Next: I became a prisoner in my home, thanks to my boss!

Master Micromanager

At the inception of the pandemic, many organizations adopted the work-from-home module. They relied on several state-of-the-art technologies to manage their workers remotely. Not everyone felt they were working from home, particularly those with micromanagers.

This employee felt harangued by their manager, who kept tracking their every move using Gchat, the company's adopted communication channel. They had to provide detailed information about their whereabouts whenever they were not on screen. Talk about approval to work from home that was never approved in the first place!