A TikTok video that showcases the mundane routine of a 9-to-5 job has gone viral, surprising many social media users. The video, created by a young woman who goes by the name @workinggirlcw, features the daily tasks of her job, from answering phone calls to staring at Excel spreadsheets, all juxtaposed with sarcastic captions and a somber soundtrack.
The video, which has been viewed over 2.5 million times, struck a chord with many viewers who have felt stuck in their own monotonous careers. Comments flooded in from people empathizing with @workinggirlcw’s feelings of boredom, frustration, and sadness. Some even admitted to having breakdowns at work or questioning the purpose of their lives.
One commenter wrote, “This video is depressing, but it’s also so relatable. I feel like I’m wasting my life away in this office.” Another person shared, “This is a reminder to all of us that we should never stop searching for happiness, whether it’s within our job or outside of it.”
What’s fascinating about the video is that it highlights the stark contrast between our expectations of a “successful” career versus the reality of it. Many of us are taught to strive for high-paying jobs, impressive titles, and prestigious companies, with the belief that these things will bring us fulfillment and happiness. Yet, as this video shows, the daily grind can be anything but glamorous.
It’s not uncommon for people in their 20s and 30s to feel disillusioned with their careers. According to a 2019 survey by LinkedIn, 66% of respondents reported feeling “stuck” in their current jobs. The reasons for this varied, from feeling unchallenged to lacking passion or purpose. Moreover, the pandemic has only exacerbated these feelings, as many people have had to work from home, navigate job loss or insecurity, and face economic uncertainty.
So, what can we take away from this viral TikTok? Firstly, it’s a reminder that we’re not alone in feeling unfulfilled with our jobs. Secondly, it’s a call to action to evaluate our own career paths and ask ourselves whether we’re truly happy with where we’re headed. If not, there’s no shame in switching gears or exploring other opportunities.
Ultimately, we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, and it’s important that we find some level of satisfaction and purpose in what we do. If the video is any indication, there’s a growing awareness that success doesn’t always equal happiness, and that it’s okay to prioritize our mental health and well-being over career ambition.
