She Strengthens

From Unemployment to Understaffing: My Journey to Financial Security

After graduating from college, I joined the ranks of the unemployed, along with many of my peers. Initially, I welcomed the break, using the time to recharge and catch up on my favorite TV shows. However, as the weeks turned into months, the stress of joblessness began to take its toll on my mental health.

Desperation Sets In

As the rejection letters piled up, I found myself resorting to absurd tasks to distract myself from the looming anxiety. I’d spend hours working on a 3D jigsaw puzzle of the globe while re-watching TV shows, all the while mentally cataloguing potential job opportunities. My resume became an obsession, with every comma and font change a desperate attempt to improve my chances.

A Job, but at What Cost?

Eventually, I landed a job as a housekeeper at an understaffed hotel. While I wouldn’t look down on any job or its employees, our working conditions were far from ideal. We were drastically understaffed, underpaid, and underappreciated, leading to long hours of physical labor and mental exhaustion.

The Dark Side of Housekeeping

My days were filled with hauling heavy linens, scrubbing bathtubs, and making beds, all while dealing with demanding hotel guests who treated us like automatons. Doors were slammed in my face, and I was constantly pulled away from my tasks to cater to their whims. My body suffered, with bruised shins, cracked hands, and swollen feet becoming the norm.

Lessons Learned

Despite the challenges, I picked up valuable life lessons during those eight months. I learned that some adults have no concept of personal boundaries, and that bed bugs are a terrifying reality. But most importantly, I realized that I needed to take control of my life and make a change.

A New Chapter

Quitting my job and moving back in with my parents was a difficult decision, but it ultimately led to a more secure financial future. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve been able to save up and plan for a move to a place with better career prospects. In six months, I’ll be in a stable financial position, and that’s something to be proud of.

A Fresh Start

Looking back, I realize that my experience as a housekeeper was a necessary step in my journey to financial security. It taught me the importance of perseverance and the value of a stable income. And although it wasn’t easy, I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the opportunities that lie ahead.