Young Professional Finds Balance: Limits to 9-to-5 After Startup’s Informal ‘Family’ Culture
Young Professional Finds Balance: Limits to 9-to-5 After Startup's Informal 'Family' Culture
A young professional, known on Reddit as leywino, has shared her challenges of adapting to a startup’s informal work culture after switching from a flexible schedule to a traditional 9-to-5 routine. Her story reveals the complexities of navigating workplace cultures that blur the lines between work and personal life.
Leywino joined a startup eight months ago, marking her first job experience. The company’s CEO promoted a close-knit, “family-like” atmosphere, where work hours were fluid and overtime was expected. Employees were encouraged to immerse themselves in the company’s social culture, which included casual conversations and informal activities during work hours. Initially, leywino embraced this environment, feeling enthusiastic about the flexibility and camaraderie it offered.
In her post, leywino recalled her early days: “So, I joined this startup around 8 months ago and since it was my first job, I didn’t know what I was walking into. The CEO was friendly and said, ‘We are like a family in here.’ There were no strict 9 to 5 hours; instead, we were expected to be fully invested and work overtime. In return, we had the freedom to joke around and even engage in NSFW discussions during work hours.”
However, after six months of adapting to this loose structure, leywino opted for a more conventional 9-to-5 work schedule, seeking better work-life balance. This decision led to her feeling isolated, as her colleagues continued to enjoy the relaxed and flexible work environment. She expressed her frustration: “I played along for six months, but since two months ago, I said I would only work from 9 to 5. Now I feel like I am alone in this mess. Everyone else is still having fun and games, and I feel mentally down. Any advice?”
Tired of “we are like family” work culture in my company
byu/leywino indevelopersIndia
Reactions to leywino’s post were varied. Some Reddit users criticized the company’s approach, with one commenter stating, “All this family thing is nonsense. Work hours should be clearly defined so we can manage our personal lives outside of work. If they offer flexibility, they might expect you to work weekends too. Being able to talk about NSFW stuff doesn’t pay the bills.”
Others supported leywino’s decision, advising her to prioritize her well-being. One user noted, “You are not alone; you are the smart one. Work for what you are paid for and leave when it’s time to clock out. Expect some pushback, but your well-being comes first.”
Leywino’s experience highlights the difficulties many face in startups where informal cultures can lead to blurred boundaries between work and personal life. Her situation underscores the need for clear work-life separation and the importance of finding a balance that supports both professional and personal well-being.
