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‘We’re humans, not machines’: Hyderabad engineer earning ₹23,000 ready for a pay cut to escape crushing 6-day work week
A woman’s post on Reddit about working six days a week has prompted a series of reactions on social media.
A 25-year-old female civil engineer’s Reddit post about her mental exhaustion has ignited a fierce discussion over six-day work weeks practised by some companies. Employed at a major infrastructure firm in Hyderabad, the woman questioned why the construction industry refuses to adopt a five-day work week like the rest of the world. She shared that the endless grind has completely disconnected her from her family and household routines.
“I’m mentally exhausted with 6-day work weeks,” the woman wrote, adding that she is a civil engineer who graduated in 2023. Then she explained how working for six days every week has exhausted her, making her disconnected in her personal life.
“By the time I get home, I barely have the energy to do basic household chores, spend time with my family, or even enjoy my evenings. Sundays are mostly spent recovering from the week’s exhaustion, and before I know it, it’s Monday again.”
Despite working for one of the largest construction companies in India, the woman is looking to switch jobs and is even willing to accept lower pay. However, the only perk she wants in the new job is a 5-day work week.
“We’re humans, not machines just to improve someone’s empire. When will this stop? Almost all the countries are adopting 5days work week.”
While responding to remarks in her comments section, the individual shared that she earns a monthly salary of ₹23,000.
What did social media say?
An individual asked, “How do you pay rent and save money?” The OP replied, “There is no money left for savings, 8k for rent, 10K I will send to my home, I'll keep 5k for transport expenses and miscellaneous expenses.”
Another posted, “I am so proud of you, mate. This country has failed you. You deserve a lot more than this. Please realise it. Either make a switch anyhow or leave this country. There is no other option.”
Also Read: ‘Disillusioned’ Indian man quits JPMorgan job and takes 70% pay cut: ‘Success isn’t big paychecks’
A third commented, “I am so proud of you OP, please apply for new jobs and pray for a better opportunity. 23k for 6 days per week is brutal. I pray you have enough strength every day and sleep well every night. All I can do is pray for you. All the best.”
A fourth wrote, “I am in kinda the same situation, 6 days in IT, would upskill and quit in the coming months.”
(Disclaimer: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. Hindustantimes.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.)
