In today’s fast-paced corporate world, the pressure to perform is relentless. Employees often sacrifice their health, personal life, and well-being in the pursuit of professional success. But what happens when this pressure becomes too much to bear? A recent story shared on the subreddit Indian Workplace has left many shaken, highlighting the devastating consequences of excessive work stress.
A Dedicated Manager, A Life Cut Short
YamNo5010, a Reddit user, shared a heartbreaking story about his manager, a hardworking and ambitious man who had dedicated himself entirely to his job. At just 35 years old, he had already climbed the corporate ladder, earning the respect of his colleagues and superiors. He was known for his impeccable attendance record, rarely taking a day off, and always pushing himself to meet company targets.
Despite his dedication, no one could have predicted that his commitment to work would cost him his life.
One Saturday, after a long and exhausting week, the manager went home as usual. He had been under immense pressure due to upcoming deadlines and had been working 12-hour shifts regularly. That night, he went to bed, unaware that it would be his last.
The next morning, he did not wake up. His family, realizing something was wrong, rushed him to the hospital. For the next few days, doctors tried to stabilize his condition, but despite their efforts, he succumbed to his illness. The sudden and tragic loss left his colleagues in shock.
The Hidden Toll of Workplace Stress
Following his passing, many speculated about the cause of his death. Some pointed out that he consumed alcohol occasionally, but his professional demeanor never indicated excessive drinking. However, one factor stood out—extreme work pressure.
YamNo5010, who had worked closely with the manager, believed that stress played a significant role in his deteriorating health. He described the gruelling work culture within the organization, where employees were expected to work long hours without complaint.
“Our work-life balance is terrible,” he wrote in his post. “People regularly work 12-hour shifts, especially during month-end tasks. The first week of every month, I always leave the office late, sometimes even on random days too.”
The manager’s final conversation with him revolved around achieving new targets set by the company’s chairman. He was committed to proving his worth, unaware that the constant pressure was pushing his body beyond its limits.
A Toxic Work Culture Exposed
The Reddit post quickly went viral, resonating with thousands of professionals who had experienced similar workplace struggles. Many expressed frustration over India’s toxic corporate culture, where employees are often overburdened and undervalued.
“In the endless race for success, we forget that we have only one life,” one commenter wrote. “When you fall ill, grow old, or pass away, the company won’t care. Put yourself first.”
Another user criticized the blind glorification of corporate jobs, pointing out their harmful impact on mental and physical health.
“I never understand why we Indians glorify these toxic MNC jobs so much. Street vendors and farmers have far better mental health than corporate workers,” another user remarked.
The overwhelming response showed that this was not an isolated incident. Thousands of employees across the country are struggling under the weight of unrealistic expectations, sacrificing their health for companies that consider them replaceable.
A Wake-Up Call for Organizations
The manager’s tragic story serves as a harsh reminder that no job is worth one’s life. As workplace stress continues to claim victims, it is crucial for companies to prioritize employee well-being over relentless productivity.
Experts emphasize the importance of:
- Setting boundaries – Employees should not feel pressured to work beyond their limits.
- Taking breaks – Short breaks can significantly reduce stress levels and improve productivity.
- Maintaining a healthy work-life balance – Employees should have time to rest, pursue personal interests, and spend time with loved ones.
If organizations fail to recognize the importance of mental and physical health, more tragic stories like this will emerge. The corporate world must shift its mindset and create a work environment where employees feel valued, supported, and respected.
The story of a 35-year-old manager who never woke up should serve as a lesson for both employees and employers—because, at the end of the day, no deadline, no target, and no promotion is worth a human life.
