Anyone else feel like this about work sometimes?

Question

Hi, I'm on annual leave at the mo and am enjoying the time off but I seem to be dwelling on when I return to work. I like my job but some colleagues make it bitchy and quite hostile at times. I am dreading going back and feel quite emotional about it. It's making me feel sick and tired. I work nights anyway and never seem to catch up on my sleep as I find it difficult to sleep in the day.

I am looking for another job but most seem to have this kind of problem. It seems that most nursing jobs are like this. Sad really I think. The manager is aware there are two people that make it miserable for many but nothing seems to get done. Also the foreign people seem to get preferencial treatment. I welcome foreign nurses and admire them but there seems to be different rules for them. They are allowed to take 4-5 weeks off in one go which is fine BUT it impeeds on my annual leave meaning I can only take a week off at one time. I wanted to take 3 weeks off to go away and it was declined. BUT other foreign nurses get 3-5 weeks off. IT's unfair.

Answer 1

I feel like that all the time.  First piece of advice - I know you are dreading going back but it will not be as bad as you think it will.  So relax firstly.

I would go to your boss about the issues you have, and express that you are unhappy.  I did this last week with my boss.  (I spoke to HR first as it was easier to address my issues with them to begin with).

The thing is, they don't want you to leave - they don't want to have to pay to replace you and retrain someone.  So it is in their best interests to help you.

However, if they are not being supportive, then it's not a place you want to be working, so don't forget you DO deserve their support, and if you don't get it, you should move on.  

It helps to start looking at other jobs too.  Sit down one night, have a glass of wine and think about what you want to be doing, and what you want in a job.  It helps to make lists, even if you feel silly.  Then start applying for the jobs you want.  If you love what you do, then think about what you want from the next place you work for, and then research online.  I take it you are a nurse - try to find out where the good places are to do nursing.  And go into your next job with confidence in what you want, and don't be afraid to ask for it.

Until then, I can only recommend that you try to change your mindset, just for your own sanity.  Try to be positive and not focus on how much you hate your job, it will only make things harder.

Good luck!!

Answer 2

Complain to your Union Rep, if your not in a union join one.

Answer 3

I think the foreign nurses might be employed by an agency, which is why they might get different amounts of holidays. I think it's really unfair on you though, you're entitled to time off and you should be able to get your 3 weeks off.

Answer 4

Yes, I used to feel the same.

Unfortunately nursing is a female dominated area and it seems by nature we are bit&hy to each other.

Speak to your union about holiday allocations, that is not fair, if one is allowed 4-5 weeks in a block, everyone should be, obviously cover allowing.

Answer 5

That's not a question, that's you getting it off your chest. Can't you just explain to your boss and get a transfer...but lay off the slight hint off racism  though or you'll get fired...still, that would solve your immediate problem!